LAKE WALES, Fla. - The Royals fought hard against a strong Thomas University side, but were unable to fend off the surging Night Hawks late and fell for the first time this season by a score of 2-3.
Warner got out to an early lead on Thursday night as
Jackson Davenport recorded 2 more goals in a Warner shirt, bringing his season total to 5 in two games. The 1st time Davenport found the back of the net came in the 31st minute of play, after the Royals put tremendous pressure on the Night Hawks defense
Jason Flaming hit a hard shot that was deflected high into the air in the box. Davenport saw his opportunity and successfully executed a beautiful bicycle kick goal knocking the ball over the opposing goal keeper's head to put the Royals ahead. Warner kept their pressure up following their opening goal and forced a turnover by the Night Hawks in the Royals offensive half of the field. After winning the ball in the midfield, Flaming hit Davenport on a great through ball into the box where Davenport collected the pass, beat his defender and stuck the ball in the back of the net past the goalie. Warner was able to continue their pressure and hold onto a 2-0 lead into the halftime break.Â
The Night Hawks were able to gain some offensive momentum as the 2nd half went on, but the Royals defense held strong stopping the Night Hawks from breaking through for 32 minutes during the half. Although the Royals defense fought hard, the Night Hawks were able to take the lead with three goals scored before the 83rd minute passed. Warner pushed hard in attempt to salvage a tie, but despite their best efforts the Royals were unable to get another goal and fell by a score of 2-3.
Mikey Melvin had another strong day in net, recording 6 saves and was one of four Royals that went the distance playing all 90 minutes on Thursday. The Royals will have an opportunity to bounce back on Saturday night when they host Pensacola Christian College at 5:00 PM.
Up Next:
The Royals will host the 2025 NCCAA DII National Champions Pensacola Christian College on Saturday, August 29th at 5:00pm on the Royals Soccer Field.Â
#GodBlessGoRoyals | #TogetherAsOne
Â
