LAKELAND, Fla. – The Florida Southern College men's soccer team advanced to the SSC Tournament Championship match with a 2-1 victory over seven-seed Tampa on Thursday night (Nov. 5). The team now advances to their first-ever SSC Championship against fifth-seeded Lynn on Sunday (Nov. 8) at 3 pm at Berend Field.
SSC Finals
Opponent: 5-Seed Lynn
Location: Lakeland, Fla. | Berend Field
Date: Thursday, Nov. 8, 2026 | 3:00 p.m.
Live Stats: http://www.fscmocs.com/stats
Video: www.fscmocs.com/live
Tournament Page: https://sunshinestateconference.com/tournaments/?id=286
The Mocs claimed victory over Tampa, despite trailing by a goal early in the second half. In the 56th minute, Ollie Stepehns followed his own shot that was deflected for a tap in goal in front of the net to draw the match even. 13 minutes later,
Hector Oliver stole a pass and started the counterattack across the pitch. After speeding through, he passed out to
Tim Baierlein whose shot found the top corner of the net to take the lead, and eventually the win. Baierlein now has 12 goals on the season and scored in the past two matches.
3rd Seed – The Moccasins - Roster |
Schedule |
Coaches |
Statistics
The Mocs now have the program's second-most wins in a season in its history with their twelve and are hoping to secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament with a win. Baierlin's game-winner was his SSC-most sixth on the season and his total goals in 2026 shoots up to twelve. Stephens goal gives the SSC Freshman of the Year five goals in 2026 and the Mocs now have five goals in the SSC Tournament.
5th Seed – The Kinights - Roster |
Schedule |
Coaches |
Statistics
The Knights advanced to the SSC Finals after a 2-0 win over Barry, followed by a thrilling 4-2 win against Rollins in double overtime in the semifinals. The Knights are on a five match unbeaten streak and have scored twelve goals in that span.
Lynn is led by Robin Muenst with his nine goals and eight assists, totaling an SSC-most 26 points on the season. He is also helped by Fabian Wagner with his own seven goals and four assists. In net, Julain Marcos is between the sticks with his three shutouts in his 13 starts on the year.
The Matchup – FSC vs LYNN
The Mocs and Knights meet for the second time in Lakeland this season, with the Mocs winning a 2-1 contest to continue their eventual five-game win streak and second consecutive top-25 win on the season. It was just the fourth win in 37 games against Lynn, and the first victory since 2018.
FSC in the SSC Finals
The Mocs will play in the SSC Championship match for the first time in program history on Sunday after winning their first semifinal match in six tries on Thursday night.
