Fast Start Fuels SMC to 4-1 Road Win Over Bryan

HIGHLIGHTS

Dayton, Tenn. – The Spartanburg Methodist College men's soccer team came out flying, getting on the board just 55 seconds into the match with a goal from Ossian Lindberg Haak that set the tone for a 4-1 victory over Bryan College on Saturday.

SMC (4-7-1, 4-5-1 AAC), which has won two of its last three games, now heads into a crucial stretch where it will host two of its final three matches with a spot in the AAC Tournament on the line.

Bryan (1-11-1, 1-7-1 AAC) found the equalizer in the 52nd minute when Josh Hernandez scored. But the Pioneers responded immediately, as freshman Anthoney Bedolla Menera put SMC back in front just one minute later off a great pass from Joaquin Gillum — his third goal of the season.

"We didn't stop there, with back-to-back insurance goals in the 81st and 82nd minutes from Thomas Pineros and Joaquin Gillum that sealed the deal," said head coach Doug Smith. "This group continues to impress, especially our younger guys who are stepping up and showing the incredible potential this team has — not just for this season, but for the future of the program. I'm so proud of the heart, fight, and energy everyone brought today."

Goalkeepers Francesco Molinar and Isaiah Simmons combined for four saves, while the SMC defense stood strong throughout the contest. The host Lions outshot the Pioneers 17-16, but SMC held an 11-9 advantage in shots on goal.

Up next, SMC will celebrate Senior Day at Nash Soccer Field on Saturday, Oct. 18 at 3:30 p.m., when the Pioneers host Carolina University.