LAKELAND, Fla. — Florida Southern (2-0-0, 0-0-0 SSC) secured a decisive 3-0 victory over Middle Georgia State (0-2-0, 0-0-0 PBC) on Sunday (August 30) at Berend Field. The home team's offense was efficient, scoring twice in the first half to establish a strong lead.
The first period began with the Moccasins taking control early.
Hector Oliver opened the scoring in just the 10th minute, assisted by
Payton Rausch on a through ball up the middle, putting the home team ahead 1-0.
Ricardo Marques also made one of his two saves on the day in the 13th minute to maintain the lead.
FSC continued to pressure, and Oliver struck again in the 22nd minute via a free kick from just outside the box, doubling the advantage to 2-0. The Knights attempted to respond, but their efforts were thwarted by a well-organized defense. The period concluded with the Mocs maintaining a 2-0 lead.
The second period began with FSC extending its lead early. In the 46th minute a cross in from
Chandler Crawshaw found the feet of
Joshua Grosser. His shot was deflected perfectly to a waiting
Ollie Stephens, who placed it in the back of the net for his first career goal to make it 3-0. Marques made a crucial save shortly thereafter, maintaining the home team's advantage.
MGA struggled to find offensive rhythm, frequently flagged for offsides and committing several fouls throughout the period. The Moccasins' defense remained solid, and
Jacob Marino's attempt in the 71st minute was saved by Thomas Howe, preventing further scoring. The period concluded with FSC holding a decisive 3-0 lead.
Hector Oliver converted both of his shots into goals, including the game-winner.
Chandler Crawshaw contributed an assist, adding to the team's offensive efforts.
Ricardo Marques secured another clean sheet by recording two saves over 90 minutes.
Ollie Stephens scored from his only shot, enhancing the team's lead.
The Knights were only just behind FSC's eight shots on the day with their seven, but committed 14 fouls to just eight for the Mocs. Each team only attempted one corner on the day while FSC controlled possession, 57-43.
The 3-0 victory combined with Friday's win marks the most goals and best margin of victories in the opening two matches of the season since 2018 when the Mocs defeated Trinity Baptist 6-0, followed by a 1-0 win against USC-Aiken.
Looking ahead, the Mocs face their first road test of the season as they travel to Delta State on Friday (September 4). Kickoff in Cleveland, Miss. is set for 4:30 PM ET.
