Mens Soccer Falls to Harris-Stowe in Season Opener

St. Louis- Men's Soccer shows promise but loses season opener to Harris Stowe 5-0. Coach Jess Semnacher commented after the game, "despite the score line there was a lot of positives to take away from today. The concepts we have been working on in practice are starting to show and the goals that were scored were all preventable and good learning opportunities. We are definitely out here to compete, but with a young group of players we are focused on the process and how we can better work together".
  
In the game the Panthers let up three goals in the first 15 min and two in the last 10 minutes. Two of Harris Stowes goals were PKs.  Freshman keeper Jacob Ellis faced 13 shots and made six strong saves in the first 55 minutes of the game and first year transfer Emiliano Gonzalez took over for the remaining 35 minutes of the game and had one of the best saves of the day with an amazing full extension save late in the match.    
 
At times, the Panthers showed their teeth on the counter and created some great chances that lack quality in the final pass. Second year player, Juniour Baraza, created the best goal scoring opportunity with a shot that was saved by the Hornets keeper. 

Standout players in the match were seniors E.G. Pierce and Gastuvas Balukake who anchored the backline.  Sophomore Pablo Alas also had a strong showing in midfield and thwarted numerous attacks with his energy and tough tackles. On the offensive side of the ball junior Walter Lazo and sophomore transfer Reginald Kihwele provided some bright sparks in the Principia attack.
 
The Panthers are back in action next Tuesday playing away at Monmouth College  at 5:00 PM in Monmouth, IL.