ELON, N.C. -- The Elon men's soccer team could not hold off a feisty Charlotte attack, dropping a 2-1 decision to the 49ers at Rudd Field on Friday evening. The Phoenix struck first on a strike by freshman Chris Thomas, but Charlotte battled back to score two unanswered goals and earn the victory. Elon falls to 0-2 on the season while Charlotte improves to 1-1.

"We are disappointed with the loss against a well-organized Charlotte team," said Elon head coach Darren Powell. "We found it difficult to break them down this evening. Our job now is to refocus, get back on the practice field and get ready for our next match."

Elon got on the board early, scoring in the seventh minute of action. Senior Steven Kinney drilled a long pass from the opposite end of the field, finding the foot of Thomas. Thomas outran two defenders and touched the ball behind Charlotte keeper David Martin to give Elon the early lead.

The teams continued to battle for possession throughout the first half. Charlotte pressured Elon's back line and found the back of the net for the equalizer at 26:52. Charlotte's Evan James served a short pass to the middle to Luke Exley who chipped it past Phoenix goalie Clint Erwin to tie the game. The game remained knotted at one at the half.

Charlotte controlled the attack for the early part of the second period, picking away at the Elon defense. In the 57th minute, James found Adam Gross on the right side of the goal box. Gross dribbled in and netted his second goal of the season on a shot from about 10 yards out to the far post.

The Phoenix was unable to answer, despite having several late opportunities, including a rocket off the foot of Gabe Latigue that Martin punch-saved over the goal.

Charlotte held a slight 11-9 advantage in shots and an 8-5 edge in corner kicks. Irwin collected two saves while Martin stopped three Elon shots.

The Phoenix will be on the road for the UNCG Classic next weekend. Elon battles Longwood on Friday, Sept. 11 at 5 p.m.