SAINT LEO, Fla. – Aaron Gendreau scored two second half goals in a 1:02 span to help push Saint Leo men's soccer (1-0) to a 4-1, season-opening victory over Clearwater Christian College (0-1), Saturday night from University Field.
Outshooting the Cougars, 35-6, Saint Leo produced a multitude of offense over the first 45 minutes of play. However, a stingy Clearwater defense held the Lions to just one goal. The Lions earned the 1-0 lead when Jesper Otterstedt slotted a ball off the left edge of the box past a diving 'keeper.
Saint Leo maintained the 1-0 lead until the 57th-minute when Clearwater's Drew Custer took control of a loose ball in the box to knot the game a one goal apiece.
A stalemate ensued over the next 20 minutes of action until Gendreau blasted a shot past the outstretched arms of the Clearwater 'keeper to break the tie, 2-1. Just over a minute later Gendreau found himself in prime territory to strike again as Edgar Herrera sent a pinpoint pass from the far touchline into the box where Gendreau brilliantly headed it in.
Brian Greco put the finishing touches on Keith Fulk's first win as the Lions' coach as he battled for a clearance that eventually found the back of Clearwater defender and ricocheted back into the net.
Defensively, the Lions only allowed the Cougars to attempt six shots, not allowing a single first half shot.
In net, McKenzey Scott earned the win behind a three-save effort facing a total of six shots.
The Lions will return to action on Monday, September 5, when they host Webber International University at 7:00 p.m. For the latest news, information, and updates on the men's soccer team, visit SaintLeoLions.com.
