Box Score DENVER, Colo. – Regis University men's soccer won their first game of the season 2-1 over Rollins College. After falling behind early in the game Regis never lost composure, constantly pushing the tempo and challenging the Rollins defense.
In the 25th minute Rollins forward Tosan Popo netted the first goal of the game, squeaking a goal past senior goalkeeper Christian Nicolosi. Minutes later redshirt-sophomore Eduardo Belmar sent in a corner that found the head of senior Cameron McCaslin beating the Rollins goalkeeper for the first Ranger goal of 2015.
The RU defense settled in nicely in the second half keeping the Rollins offense in check, giving them little opportunities to build an attack. Junior Joseph Terry repeatedly won balls defensively providing easy transitions into the offense. In the 81st minute freshman Quinton Carey carried the ball into the offensive zone finding fellow freshman Sean Ward who netted the second goal of the game for Regis.
Christian Nicolosi made four saves in the game, all of which were in the second half. None more crucial than a one on one opportunity for a Rollins attacker who got behind the Ranger defensive line with under nine minutes to play in the game. This defining moment electrified the team as Rollins continued pressuring in the closing minutes.
Regis finished the game with 12 shots (four shots on goal), while Rollins took 11 shots (five shots on goal). Sophomore Sawyer Lincoln led all Rangers with four shots. RU won the corner kick battle eight to four.
RU will face fellow RMAC foe Colorado Mines in a non-conference match September 8 at 4:30 p.m. on the Regis Match Pitch.
