Newberry game: Pacers couldn't kick it
In the season opener on Thursday evening, the men's soccer team lost to Newberry 2-0.
The game started with both teams fighting for control of the ball. The first goal of the game happened the 26:43 mark, with Newberry scoring.
Newberry continued to have break-aways at the Pacer goal, but USC Aiken goalie Kenneth Kalek wouldn't let another ball past.
When the second half of gameplay started, the men’s team came out looking for an opening to even out the score.
Kalek continued to excel on saves, but at the 65th minute of action Newberry increased the margin to a 2-0.
The Pacers made a solid effort at trying to score a goal, but Newberry held onto the ball and won the game.
During the match, the Pacers tallied seven shots at Newberry’s net with two on the frame. The team also totaled six corner kicks.
Head coach Ike Ofoje said that the team played as expected, but noted that it was just the first game of the season.
“We’re very, very young and a little bit on the inexperienced side, compared to Newberry,” he added. “It’s a process. We still have a very long season ahead of us.”
The Pacers will return to action on Sunday, Sept. 15 when they play Saint Leo at 1 p.m.
Photos by Sports Editor Michael Kuras