ELON, N.C. – The Elon men’s soccer team played the visiting Sports-ed squad to a 1-1 draw after the visitors scored a late goal to knot the score. Sports-ed is a group comprised of international athletes that periodically tours the United States and competes against college teams. The Phoenix’s lone goal came on a penalty kick by freshman Chris Thomas.

“This game was a very spirited match, which was a good test for our guys against one of the better Sports-ed teams that we have hosted,” said Elon head coach Darren Powell. “We need to learn from tonight’s game to capitalize on our chances and get better as the spring progresses.”

Elon keeper Clint Irwin saw the majority of time in the net and did not allow a goal. Freshman Reed Dillard also played about 20 minutes in goal for the Phoenix. Elon got on the board about 33 minutes into the contest. Thomas, who led Elon with 10 goals in 2009, drove a penalty kick into the back of the net.

The Phoenix controlled much of the attack in the second half, but was unable to cushion its lead. A short shot by Thomas ricocheted off the post in the opening minutes of the final period and freshman Gabe Latigue nailed another off the post from about 15 yards out shortly after. Denzel Ogunyase also had a good look at the net midway through the period.

Sports-ed cleaned up a long throw in the box in the closing minutes of action, putting a short shot past Dillard to make it a 1-1 final.

Elon will host Gardner-Webb and Louisburg College on Thursday, April 1. The Phoenix will battle Gardner-Webb at 5 p.m. and then challenge Louisburg around 7:30 p.m.