Railsplitters Win Season Opener In A Physical 1-0 Match Over Alabama-Huntsville
September 5, 2010
HARROGATE, TN -- The Railsplitters of Lincoln Memorial University made a strong statement in a very physical 1-0 victory over the Chargers of Alabama-Huntsville Sunday afternoon. It was the season opener for both teams.
From the opening whistle, the match proved to be an immense defensive struggle with aggressive play from both teams. The first half of the match was the product of a possesion battle in which each team fought incredibly to seize the few opportunities provided by the defenses. At halftime, the score remained 0-0, as neither team was able to break through.
The match continued this theme until LMU notched a goal from senior defender Lucas Pereira at the sixty-minute mark of the match. Pereira capitalized on a brilliantly-placed corner kick from sophomore midfielder Fernando Silveira, making the score 1-0 in favor of the Railsplitters.
From that moment, the game became a matter of time and ball control. With thirty minutes remaining in the match, the Railsplitters were able to put a stop to every Charger scoring opportunity. This was highlighted by junior goalkeeper Michael Watkins' incredible save off a late Charger kick to keep the game in Lincoln Memorial's favor. Watkins was aided defensively by a spectacular performance from Pereira, who broke up many Charger attacks with his speed.
The Railsplitters will be looking to build on this performance when they take the field again on Friday, September 10th, as they travel to Milligan College. That match is scheduled for a 7 p.m. start time.
