The Phoenix struck first, taking a 1-0 lead at the 14:32 mark when Kiki Willis headed a ball from Aparicio past the Paladin keeper. Will Mason was also credited with an assist on the score. Willis now has a team-best four goals on the year.
Furman evened the score at one at 24:32 when Rob Victor scored for the second time this season. Victor put home a ball that was touched to him by Michael Erwood. Kevin Norman also earned an assist on the play as his corner kick set up the play.
The only score in the second half came off the foot of Aparicio (right). He scored his third goal of the season after Brett Paschall touched the ball to him after receiving it from Blake Wertz. The goal was Aparicio’s third this season.
Elon’s Taylor Saxe earned the win after making three saves in goal. Bryan Amos stopped just one shot for Furman on the night.
After a combined 17 fouls in the first period (Furman 9, Elon 8), the second stanza was marred with whistles. In the second half, the Paladins were whistled for 19 fouls to 15 for the Phoenix. Total, the two teams combined for 51 fouls. Only three cards were issued in the contest.
Assistant coach Dustin Fonder said, "I thought our team fought very hard tonight against a strong Furman squad. To come out with three points tonight will be huge in our quest for the SoCon title."
The Phoenix improved its record in Rhodes Stadium to 4-3 with the victory. All four wins have come against Southern Conference foes.
Up next for Elon will be a home date with UNC Asheville at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday night at Rudd Field. Furman will visit Mercer that same day at 3:00 p.m.
-- ELON --
Game Box Score
