LAKELAND, Fla. — Florida Southern men's soccer (6-8-2, 3-6-1 SSC) was defeated 2-0 by Saint Leo (5-7-4, 3-4-3 SSC) at the Barnett Athletic Complex on Wednesday evening.
Florida Southern started the first half with a strong defensive presence, including multiple saves by
Lasse Dettmer, who stopped shots from Adam Yousfi and Jorge Perez. The home team generated several corner opportunities in the opening minutes, maintaining pressure on Saint Leo's defense. Despite the offensive efforts, including attempts from
Ryan Fitzgerald and
Max Muth, Fla. Southern was unable to capitalize on their chances.
As the half progressed, Saint Leo found a breakthrough with a goal by William Gregory in the 42nd minute, assisted by Samuel Teixeira. Florida Southern responded with a late surge of shots from
Joshua Swank,
Ryan Fitzgerald, and
Lukas Wendahl Arnesson, but could not find the net. The half closed with the Mocs trailing 1-0.
The second half began with intense action as Florida Southern executed a corner kick within the first minute, followed by a shot from Arnesson that was saved by Saint Leo's goalkeeper, James Knudsen. The Mocs maintained offensive pressure with multiple shot attempts, including efforts from
Brage Aune and
Dakota Henry, but were unable to find the back of the net. Dettmer played a crucial role in goal, making key saves to deny Saint Leo's Perez and Yousfi.
Midway through the half, Florida Southern continued to apply pressure with shots from
Santiago Luna and
Julian Moran, though these were either off-target or saved. Despite the persistent efforts, the Lions capitalized on their opportunities, securing a goal in the 89th minute by Rodolfo Iguala to extend their lead. The half concluded with the Lions ahead, resulting in a 2-0 final score.
Dettmer recorded five saves over 90 minutes, facing 13 shots on goal. Luna registered two shots, with one on target. Arnesson attempted three shots, including one that was on goal.
Knudsen played a pivotal role for the Lions, recording a shutout with three saves over 90 minutes. Gregory contributed significantly, scoring a goal that also served as the game-winner. Iguala added another goal, finding the back of the net on one of his two shots. Teixeira provided an assist and had two shots, one of which was on goal.
The Mocs now look ahead to conference tournament play as they travel down to West Palm Beach to take on Palm Beach Atlantic University. The kickoff is scheduled for 6:00 p.m.
