Men’s Soccer Secures Postseason Spot With Win Over Evansville

Photo taken by Kali Akridge

Belmont men's soccer wrapped up its regular season with a 2-1 win over Evansville, resulting in a spot in the Missouri Valley Conference tournament.  

The match opened with balanced play from both teams, keeping the fans' heads on a swivel. Both teams split possessions, moving the ball quickly.  

Belmont played with aggression early on, pressing the Purple Aces and challenging their defense. The energy inside E.S. Rose Park was electric with chants echoing throughout the stands.  

Evansville scored early on to take the lead at 1-0. However, the Bruins wasted no time tying the game at 1-1 with sophomore midfielder Louis Peña scoring a bicycle kick into the goal.   

By halftime, Belmont led statistically with six shots on goal and three corner kicks, while graduate goalkeeper Grant Calvert made a key save in the first half.  

Belmont carried its momentum with Peña scoring again with a tiebreaker 10 minutes into the second half. The Bruins were exhilarated, and the energy spread to the stands, where fans cheered on their feet.   

The Bruins' defense held strong as the aces tried to rally and put pressure on Belmont, and the Bruins closed the match victorious.  

With the win, Belmont secures its spot in the MVC Championship opening round on Sunday against UIC. 

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This article was written by Kali Akridge