Box Score SAINT LEO, Fla. – The Saint Leo men's soccer team dropped a tough 3-1 battle with the Tampa Spartans Wednesday night at the Saint Leo Soccer Field. The Sunshine State Conference decision improved Tampa's record to 5-6-1, 3-4-1 SSC in their first visit to the win column following a five-game drought. Saint Leo's season mark moved to 6-7, 3-4 SSC during the team's second consecutive loss.
 
Tampa claimed its first goal with a quick give-and-go pass inside the box in the 37^th minute. The strike gave way to a one-goal game at the halftime break.
 
Spartan, Julius Becker, held the ball at his feet inside the box, shook off three Green and Gold defenders and slipped the ball into the back of net to extend Tampa's lead in the 53^rd minute. Saint Leo demanded a tally on the scoreboard in the 78^th minute. Mauro Diaz dished a beautiful pass across the box where Tore Naess scored his first season goal.

The Spartans collected a loose ball off a Lions' corner kick and put together a counter-attack goal for insurance in the 88^th minute.
 
Saint Leo found themselves on the bottom of an 18-13 shot count with Tampa. In the midst of the Spartans' offensive performance, Lions' goalkeeper, Christian Evans, was a huge presence between the pipes with six stops. On the other end of the field, the Green and Gold forced four saves by Spartans' Jake Richards.
 
The Lions return to action on Saturday, Oct. 26 at the Saint Leo Soccer Field against Nova Southeastern at 7 p.m.
 
For the latest news, updates, and information on the Saint Leo men's soccer team, visit SaintLeoLions.com. Fans can also stay up-to-date on the latest Lions news by following Saint Leo Athletics on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.