The Bob Jones University men's soccer team moved to 2-2 on the season after earning a 4-2 victory Friday afternoon in their first ever meeting against Maryville College. Goals by Matthias Baladi, Eli Solomon, and a brace by Mario Figueroa propelled the Bruins into the win column.
"I am really proud of that way the team battled through adversity today," said Head Coach Greg Fulton. "We knew this was a tough opponent who have been having a great year so far, while we have been working through some wrinkles."
From their home pitch at the MC Soccer Complex in Maryville, Tennessee, the Maryville College Scots got off to a quick start in Friday's contest. After three early corner kicks and two shots, the Scots notched the first goal of the night in the 10th minute.
Less than 10 minutes later, the Bruins looked to make a run up the field. In front of the Maryville goal, the Scots deflected the ball right to the feet of Matthias Baladi who shot it past the goalkeeper to even the game at 1-1. The Bruins kept the offensive pressure on, and in the 28th minute, Mario Figueroa passed the ball to Eli Solomon who broke the deadlock with his first goal of the season.
Just minutes before halftime, Mario Figueroa's shot bounced off Maryville's goalkeeper's gloves into the top right corner of the net to see the Bruins up 3-1 at the end of the first half.
After the break, the Bruins picked up a handball call in the 67th minute. Maryville's strike from 22 yards out deflected off the right post and past goalkeeper Cameron Braswell to make the score 3-2.
Not satisfied with a goal and assist on the night, Mario Figueroa was set up with a perfect give-and-go from Will Hotchkin to sail the ball past the keeper and pull the Bruins ahead 4-2 in the 72nd minute.
Right as the game was ending, Maryville received a red card to end the game with just 10 players on the pitch.
At the final whistle, it was the Bruins on top 4-2 to pick up their second win of the season.
"Today's focus was on us and our mindset alone," said Fulton. "I am so proud the guys took a big step forward showing grit every time there was a setback. The match was overly physical and I thought we responded really well to some late hits. We know there is still room to grow but what a great way to respond after a loss."
Up next, the Bruins will make their way to Spartanburg, South Carolina to face Converse University in a Tuesday night tilt.
