JACKSON, Miss.--- Asbury men's soccer (5-3-2, 1-1-0 CCS) earned a road Collegiate Conference of the South (CCS) win in Jackson, Miss., on Saturday night with five saves from sophomore
Peyton French to beat the Belhaven Blazers (5-3-3, 2-1-0 CCS), 2-1.
The tension was tight throughout the match, with both teams locked in a goalless tie at halftime. The second half, however, saw Asbury stepping up their game, pushing the pace and finally breaching the Belhaven defenses with two goals.
AU sophomore sport management major
Jason Flaming broke the deadlock with a penalty kick at 49:09 into the match after a handball in the box was called on Belhaven. Flaming now has three goals on the year, tied with
Nick Eller and
Cameron Johnson in second place behind
Salat Kipterit with five goals.
Johnson, an Asbury senior exercise science major doubled the lead for the Eagles at 60:46, receiving an assist from
Jason Flaming in the box for the game-winning shot. Flaming leads AU in assists with three on the season.
French, Asbury's business admin goalie, played a crucial role with five saves, limiting the Blazers to a single goal from their six shots on goal. Asbury's defense also stood firm against relentless pressure, fending off eight corner kicks from Belhaven.
AU was efficient with their two goals, taking only six shots on the night with four on goal. Belhaven took 11 shots with six on goal.
Despite the physical match, which saw a total of 23 fouls, the Eagles maintained composure and efficiency. Belhaven had slightly more fouls at 13, compared to Asbury's 10.
The victory in Jackson, Miss., boosts Asbury's current season record to five wins, three losses, and two draws, with a conference tally of 1-1-0.
Looking ahead, Asbury will next face CCS opponent Maryville College on their home turf in Wilmore, Ky., on Wednesday for APM paving Night.
"Away games always come with their challenges, certainly when they are 9 hours away. Despite those factors we fought hard to stay in the game and come out on top. The CCS isn't easy but I think that we will continue to make a name for ourselves."
Cameron Johnson | Senior | Exercise Science | Lexington, Ky.
"It was a great game to fight alongside with the boys for our first conference win."
Pascal Muller | Junior | Business Admin | Öschelbronn, Germany
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Jason Flaming | Goal (3), Assist (3)
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Peyton French | 5 Saves
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Cameron Johnson | Goal (3)
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