Box Score

BOONE, N.C. – Bruno Mbamala’s header in the 45th minute of action proved the difference as the Appalachian State Mountaineers managed a 1-0 victory over the visiting Elon Phoenix in the opening round of the 2010 Southern Conference Men’s Soccer Tournament. Elon sent a barrage of shots on goal in the second half, but was unable to get the equalizer on the cold, windy day in the mountains. The Phoenix ends its season at 8-6-5 overall while Appalachian State (8-7-3) advances to the semifinals of the league tournament next Friday evening.

“It is always tough to lose in the playoffs, especially for our seniors who have worked extremely hard over the last four years,” said Elon head coach Darren Powell. “Good luck to Appalachian State who executed their game plan well and we were unable to capitalize on the few chances we created.”

Mbamala has scored only two goals this year, both game-winners against the Phoenix. He netted the golden goal in the 109th minute of action as Appalachian State defeated Elon in double overtime during the regular season.

Elon was forced to play without its star forward and league-leading goal scorer Chris Thomas who was sidelined with an injury. While unable to generate too much offense in the first period, the Elon defense kept Appalachian State off the board until the final minute of the half.

The Phoenix’s best first-half opportunity came off the foot of James Carroll about 10 minutes into the action. The midfielder booted a strike from about 12 yards out that sailed just high of the net.

With 30 seconds left before the break and ASU on the attack, the ball was headed around inside the goal box before Mbamala managed to head in the short shot just inside the near post to give the Mountaineers the advantage.

Appalachian State nearly added to its lead in the opening minute of the second half as Sean Dreybus’ shot ricocheted off the inside of the post and the Mbamala bicycle kick that followed went just wide.

After that, it was Elon who controlled much of the possession in the final 45 minutes, drubbing eight shots and forcing ASU goalie Danny Free to make four saves and manage numerous crosses. The Phoenix nearly knotted the game with about 26 minutes to play. Gabe Latigue sent a corner into the box that found the foot of Stephen Dilger. The forward’s short kick was blocked off the goal line by an Appalachian defender to keep Elon scoreless. Shortly after, Latigue sent a strike from about 18 yards out right into the hands of Free.

Elon held an 8-4 advantage in corner kicks, taking six in the second half, while Appalachian took a 12-11 edge in shots.

Six seniors finished their Phoenix soccer careers this afternoon — goalie Clint Irwin, midfielder Brad Franks, forward Stephen Dilger, defender Ben Lunka, midfielder Hunter Miller and midfielder Greg Mader. The group compiled four winning seasons while at Elon, compiling 36 victories during its time.