Spartans Fall to Defending National Champions

Box score

TAMPA, Fla.-The University of Tampa men's soccer team fell short to the defending NCAA national champions, Lynn University late in the second half with a 1-0 final score on Saturday night in Pepin Stadium.

The Spartans drop to 4-4-2, 0-3 in the Sunshine State Conference, while the Knights improve to 5-4-1, 2-1 in conference play.

The first half's hard-fought efforts went unrewarded concluding with the score tied at zero. Forward Kevin Knowles sparked Tampa offense with a shot on goal late in the first half; however, he was unable to convert.

Both keepers David Niepel for Tampa and Kevin Shields for Lynn registered two saves in the first half. The Knights outshot the Spartans 8-2 to begin the game with neither team caving to a goal.

The Spartans held off the Knights until the final 10 minutes of play. A cross from Yannick Braeuer to Simon Gubisch ended the scoreless battle finalizing the 1-0 conclusion.

Tampa was unable to convert their two shots on goal throughout the game. The Knights continued to dominate shots in the second half by an 8-1 margin. Niepel logged four saves throughout the onslaught.

Tampa returns to action against Nova Southeastern at 6 p.m. on Oct. 16 in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Live stats will be made available through www.tampaspartans.tv.

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