Warner Men’s Soccer Defeats No. 14 Shorter
THOMASVILLE, Ga. – For the second consecutive Sunday, the Warner University men’s soccer team earned a victory over a ranked opponent as they handed No. 14 Shorter University (Ga.) their first loss of the season, 2-1 Sunday afternoon in the final day of the Thomas Invitational at the Wendy’s Soccer Complex.
The Royals improve to 5-1-1 on the year, while the Hawks are now 4-1-1.
Right from the get-go, Warner attacked the Hawks. Five minutes into the period, senior Stevens Cabas scored the first goal of his collegiate career to give the Royals the early lead. The Hawks would respond in the 14th minute when Sebastian Stihler connected on one of his five shots to deadlock the match at one, he received the assist from John Calderwood.
Despite facing 11 shots in the first period, the Royals defense would not surrender another goal as starting goalkeeper Jonathan Romero made two saves in the half to maintain the 1-1 draw.
In the second half, with the game tied at one, the Royals picked up the intensity on offense, increasing their shot total, boasting a 9-4 advantage in shots in the period. A Warner shot finally found the back of the net in the 68th minute, Jean Pierre Jimenez came up with the game-winning goal to put the Royals on top 2-1; it was Jimenez’ 14th career goal as a Royal and his fifth career game-winner in a Warner uniform.
Romero earned the win in goal for Warner, making four saves and allowing a goal in the 90 minutes. Marcus Stallechner suffered the loss for the Hawks after surrendering two goals and stopping three shots.
Shorter edged the Royals 15-14 in shots in the contest; the two teams were even in shots on goal with five apiece. Shorter had 12 corner kicks, compared to two for the Royals.
The Royals have no time to celebrate as they open conference play Thursday night by hosting No. 3 and reigning The Sun Conference champions Embry-Riddle University in a 7 p.m. match at Royals Field.