LAKE WALES, Fla. – The men's soccer team won their game tonight against the Faulkner University Eagles 2-1 and have started off the 2018 season 2-0, the teams hottest start in eight years. Head coach Drew Stacey has his offense clicking on all cylinders to start off the season, as the Royals have outscored their first two opponents 5-2. After the game he stated, "this game was another battle, which is good because it helps us grow more mentally strong and will help us learn how to win games and ultimately championships." The team looked in championship form tonight as they were able to outlast the Eagles down the stretch and come away with the win.
 
The excitement started early for the Royals when freshman forward Matheus Santiago scored his first goal of the season in the 11^th minute of the match off an assist from junior mid-fielder Widler Monestime. The team continued to apply the pressure throughout the first half, both on offense and defense and were able to keep the Faulkner offense from scoring, as the first half ended with the Royals ahead 1-0.
 
The Eagles evened things up in the 60^th minute off a rebound goal from Federico Fraile, but 5 minutes later the Royals offense struck again when senior forward Kenolson Collin scored a brake away goal, off an assist from freshman mid-fielder Christian Chung, to push the lead to 2-1. Throughout the entire game the Royals goalie junior Angelo Neto did an outstanding job of protecting the net from the Eagles offense, blocking 6 of 7 shots on goal and battling rough play from corner kicks. Both teams were aggressive on defense as the game saw a combined 48 fouls and a yellow card, which was given to Faulkner's Giulherme Mondaini.

Thanks to tactical offense and strong defense Warner was able to hold off Faulkner the rest of the second half and come away victorious. The Royals look to extend their winning streak and unleash more high-powered offense this Saturday August 25, against Trinity Baptist College at Royals Field at 7 p.m.