Elon University’s men’s soccer team came out on top 1-0 in a ferocious battle at Rudd Field against Liberty University on Monday, Aug. 30.
For the second straight game, senior forward Jack Edwards scored the game-winning goal for the Phoenix, this time in double overtime. He said scoring the goal was a fantastic feeling.
“Being able to put a smile on my teammates’ and all our supporters’ faces was great,” Edwards said. “Double overtime is always intense but the team did well under pressure and fought to the end.”
Prior to the game-winning goal, Elon and Liberty kept almost even possession throughout, with Liberty taking six shots and Elon taking 10. Elon generated constant pressure on Liberty’s defense and Edwards said he was proud of how well the team managed to put up a fight in its home opener.
“The environment was electric and we were all very excited to finally play on Rudd Field,” Edwards said.
Head Coach Marc Reeves said he was very pleased with his team’s effort and believes the win could provide them with confidence going forward.
“I am so proud of the guys. They kept reaching during those last thirteen minutes of regulation and kept at it into overtime,” Reeves said. “It was an incredible game and I look forward to watching them continue to develop.”
The Phoenix have just two matches remaining before their Colonial Athletic Association schedule begins on Sept. 11 against Delaware.
The Phoenix will play Central Arkansas University at the UAB Tournament in Birmingham, AL on Friday, Sept. 3 at 5:00 PM.