Andres Mata’s two-goal effort helped lift Stetson over the Jacksonville University men’s soccer program, 2-1, Saturday night at Southern Oak Stadium.
After shots on goal by the host Dolphins (3-7-3, 0-4-2) in the 17th and 28th minutes, the Hatters were able to strike first, as Mata slipped the ball past the Dolphin goalkeeper in the 32nd frame, giving the Hatters a 1-0 advantage.
A back-and-forth defensive battle would ensue for the remainder of the first half, as the visitors entered the halftime intermission holding a one-goal lead.
The physical defensive effort continued to open the second half, however Mata would find the back of the net in the 59th minute.
Following a corner kick by Stetson which resulted the ball being kicked around in the box, Mata would find the bottom corner of the goal, giving Stetson a two-goal lead.
In the 72nd minute, the Dolphins would be forced to play a man down for the remainder of the contest. However, in the 85th minute, the ‘Phins would trim into the deficit, as Ed Port struck the top right corner of the goal.
In the end, Stetson would hold on for the 2-1 victory.
Original source can be found here.
