SPORTS
Men’s Soccer Pulls Away from UNC Asheville for a 3-1 Win
This was the ‘Cats opening goal – a career first by Henry Howell.
DAVIDSON, N.C. – Jaylen Thompson scored the eventual game-winner and assisted another goal as Davidson defeated UNC Asheville, 3-1, in non-conference men’s soccer action Tuesday at Alumni Stadium.
The Wildcats, who finished with a commanding 19-8 advantage in shots, improve to 3-3-0 on the season, while UNCA falls to 1-6-1.
Despite an overly aggressive maneuver by the UNC-Asheville defender, Jaylen Thompson turned and scored the ‘Cats’ second goal on the evening.
Tied 1-1 with 9 minutes to play, Thompson netted his first goal of the season when he put away a loose ball in front.
Just over a minute later, Thompson connected with Ned Morrissett inside the 18-yard box to put the game out of reach.
Davidson wasted little time grabbing the early 1-0 advantage as Henry Howell rebounded the second of two Lucas Hauth shots, 47 seconds into the match, for his first collegiate strike.
UNC Asheville’s lone goal came in the 50th minute from Lane Carroll.
The Wildcats also held an 8-1 margin in corner kicks.
Tonight’s contest was originally scheduled for Sunday before being postponed due to Hurricane Florence.
Up Next
Davidson will take on another Big South foe this weekend as the Wildcats travel to nearby Rock Hill Saturday for a 6 p.m. kickoff with Winthrop.
Ned Morrissett scored the ‘Cats third goal just a minute after Thompson’s second goal.
Postgame Comments from Head Coach Matt Spear
The guys spoke about a strong start, so the early goal by Henry Howell, his first in the college level, put us out front early.
We had several great chances in the first half, including some opportunities for Lucas Hauth with the start, but the second goal eluded us.
And then we hit the post early in the second half and got more chances. It felt like the second goal would have led to a more comfortable win.
But Asheville got one back and of course that gave them some belief.
Yesterday at practice I talked with our wingers and forwards about the need for more productivity so it was good timing for Jaylen Thompson to get the game winner and for Ned to see it off at the end.