LAKELAND, Fla. - The Royals traveled to Lakeland, FL to take on first-year program Florida Polytechnic University on Wednesday. The two programs battled in a tightly contested match that ultimately ended in favor of Florida Poly by a score of 3-to-1.
The Royals and Phoenixes battled in a tightly contested defensive half that saw the two teams knotted at 0 heading into the break. Royals goalkeeper,
Mikey Melvin came up with 2 of his 3 saves on the night in the 1st half to help keep the red hot 4-1-0 FPU to no goals in the opening 45. The two teams ramped up their intensity in the 2nd half as both teams fought to find an edge over their opponent.Â
Warner finally broke the tie in the 76th minute off a beautifully built up goal that ended with another
Jackson Davenport goal. The Royals attack started with Melvin when he picked off a dangerous cross into the box by the Phoenixes. Melvin smartly distributed the ball out to his right fullback before the team quickly worked the ball up the right side of the field while utilizing 6 great passes to cut through the FPU defense.
Euan Bunn then hit a tremendous cross to the far post for Davenport, who executed a perfect header to the opposite post to give the Royals the lead. Davenport's goal on Wednesday puts the 1st-year Royal at an incredible 8 goals on the season. Davenport's 8 goals currently puts him in 2nd in the NAIA for goals scored in the early parts of the season.Â
Despite their best efforts, the Royals were unable to hold onto their lead and would ultimately fall 3-to-1. Warner will have an opportunity to bounce back on Saturday at home against Carolina University.
Up Next:
The Royals will return home on Saturday to host Carolina University on the Royals Soccer FIeld with kick-off scheduled for 10:00am.
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