Eagles Too Strong for Bulldogs in 4-1 Victory

By Mike DeVader, Reinhardt Director of Athletic Communications & Media

WALESKA, Ga. – Reinhardt men's soccer netted three goals in-a-row (two in the first half) and never looked back in a 4-1 victory over the Bulldogs of Tennessee Wesleyan Wednesday night at home inside Ken White Field at University Stadium.

The triumph bumped the Eagles' record to 4-0 on the season and 2-0 within the Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC).

"I believe the unpredictability of shifting circumstance in these times can provide a deeper appreciation for the moment," head coach Joey Johnson said. "Beautiful weather for a match combined with an opportunity to compete in the AAC against a quality team was a moment to be grateful for. It was a battle as expected... Respect to the players from both sides for the effort put into the match."

Rafael Pais got the fans on their feet early on in the conference battle after he nailed a shot into the back of the net for a 1-0 lead after a nice feed from Lukas Gerhardt in the fifth minute. About 12 minutes later, Gus Fidler got his chance to celebrate after notching a tally of his own (from Blake White) at 16:37.

Perhaps the most impressive score came about three minutes after halftime when Trevor Robinson pushed the advantage to 3-0 following a thunderous kick from long range. The Bulldogs wouldn't be held scoreless for much longer, however, as they got on the scoreboard for the first time at 54:37.

Thirty minutes of action would come and go before the next tally was registered, as both teams played quality soccer and moved the ball up-and-down the field. Sergio Cristaldo broke the scoreless streak with a nice ball into the net at 84:12 for the final score of the evening on either side.

The hosts earned 13 shots (eight on-goal) and an 8-1 lead in corner kicks while surrendering just six attempts at scoring.

Niko Tzevelekos stayed in the net all night and made three saves in the win.

Reinhardt takes to the road again on Sunday afternoon against Union (Ky.) at 2:30 p.m.

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For more information on Reinhardt Men's Soccer, please click here.