Pioneers’ Rally Cut Short in Narrow Loss to Reinhardt

Spartanburg, S.C. – Down a goal with less than two minutes to play, the Spartanburg Methodist College men's soccer team saw its game-tying goal called back on an offsides decision, spoiling a late comeback attempt in a 2-1 loss to Reinhardt on Wednesday afternoon.

The Pioneers (1-4-1, 1-2-1 AAC) battled back after surrendering two first-half goals to the Eagles. SMC cut into the deficit in the 78th minute when Rodrigo Pinheiro scored his first goal of the season off a well-placed pass from Tomas Vega.

Reinhardt (2-3-1, 2-1 AAC) controlled much of the opening half, striking quickly with two goals in a 34-second span. Nathan Booth opened the scoring in the sixth minute before Luke McLaren added what proved to be the game-winner moments later.

Despite the loss, SMC outshot Reinhardt 10-9, with goalkeeper Francesco Molinar recording four saves. Reinhardt goalkeeper Andree Meza also made four stops, while the Eagles held a narrow 6-5 edge in shots on goal.

The Pioneers return to action Saturday, traveling to Athens, TN to face Tennessee Wesleyan at 2:30 p.m.