SPARTANBURG, S.C. – The Elon men’s soccer team suffered its first Southern Conference loss of the season as the Phoenix dropped a 2-0 decision to the host Wofford Terriers at Snyder Field on Sunday night. The Phoenix (6-5-2, 3-1-0) had not lost a regular-season conference game since the 2007 season, a span of 10 matches. Wofford remains unbeaten in league action with an overall record of 6-1-3 and a 2-0-1 mark in the SoCon.
"Tonight was a very tough game but credit to Wofford who had a very good game plan and executed on a couple of their chances," said Elon head coach Darren Powell. "Now we have to look forward and get ready to play a very talented Furman team next Saturday."
Wofford got off to a quick start, sending a barrage of shots at Elon keeper Clint Irwin in the early part of the contest. Irwin made four of his game-high eight saves in the first 15 minutes of play. Elon managed to weather the storm and get off a few shots of its own before the break, but the game remained scoreless at the half.
The Terriers again came out on fire to start the final period, this time finding the back of the net at 46:05. Randy McLeod sent a cross from the right side of the field, finding teammate Branson Hyatt. Hyatt notched his second goal of the season on a shot to the left corner of the goal.
Wofford cushioned its lead in the 63rd minute when Kentrel Owens took a pass from Paulo Bonfim and sent a strike to the right corner of the net at 62:03.
Elon was unable to find the back of the net for only the third time this season and the first time since a September 11 contest with Longwood when the teams played to a 0-0 tie. Wofford held an 18-11 shot advantage, while Elon took five corner kicks compared to only three by the home team.
Elon will remain on the road to challenge the Furman Paladins on Saturday, October 24. Kick is set for 7 p.m. from Stone Stadium.
-- ELON --
