Florida Southern Battles Hard in 2-1 Setback to Ranked Florida Tech

LAKELAND, Fla. — Florida Southern College men's soccer fell 2-1 to No. 16 Florida Tech on Saturday at Berend Field despite a strong offensive showing with 17 total shots.
 
The first half began with Florida Southern applying early pressure on the Florida Tech defense. The home team managed multiple attempts on goal, including three shots saved by Florida Tech's goalkeeper Elias Ronning, with efforts from Daniel Shabani, Paul Hansen, and Hector Oliver. The Moccasins' persistence in attack was evident, as they maintained offensive momentum throughout much of the half.
 
However, the Panthers capitalized on their opportunity in the 34th minute, when Jacopo De Collibus found the back of the net, giving the visitors a 1-0 lead. Despite Florida Southern's efforts to equalize, the half concluded with Florida Tech maintaining its narrow advantage. The first half ended with Florida Southern trailing 1-0.
 
The second half began with Florida Southern applying offensive pressure, highlighted by early attempts from Hansen and Joshua Grosser. Despite these efforts, Florida Tech extended its lead when Logan Collins scored in the 59th minute, assisted by Francesco Micheli, bringing the score to 2-0.
 
Florida Southern responded in the 62nd minute when Tim Baierlein converted a penalty kick, narrowing the deficit to 2-1. The team continued to push forward, with Hansen and Joao Lopes both posing threats, though Florida Tech's defense held firm. The half closed with the score remaining 2-1 in favor of Florida Tech.
 
Baierlein scored the Moccasins' single goal and converted his only penalty attempt, finishing with two shots on goal. Hansen led the team in shooting attempts, registering eight shots with one on target. Shabani and Lopes each managed to direct one of their shots on goal during the match.
 
Ronning made six saves for the Panthers, facing 17 shots and allowing only one goal. Lucca Denardi contributed an assist, while De Collibus found the net with his only shot on goal. Collins scored the game-winning goal, also converting his sole shot on target.
 
Looking ahead, Florida Southern College will host No.25 Nova Southeastern University on October 25 at Berend Field in Lakeland, Fla. The match is set to begin at 7 p.m. ET.
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