Box Score

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – An early second-half goal by T.J. Beaulieu gave the Charlotte 49ers the 1-0 victory against the visiting Elon Phoenix men’s soccer team in a physical battle from Transamerica Field on Saturday evening. Charlotte improved to 1-1 on the season while Elon dropped to 0-2.

After a scoreless first half, the home team came out firing. In the 52nd minute, Tyler Gibson sent a long cross in the box from the right side of the field. Beaulieu picked it up and slid the shot past Elon goalie Clint Irwin who had come out of the net. The score proved the game-winner as the Phoenix were unable to get the equalizer.

“Again, this was another highly competitive college soccer match,” Elon head coach Darren Powell stated. “We worked hard, but weren’t able to capitalize on our few chances against a very well-organized, disciplined Charlotte team. Our focus needs to be on continuing to get better in preparation for our first home games next week.”

The first half was evenly played with both teams getting some quality looks at the goal. Elon came out with momentum early and nearly found the back of the net in the opening five minutes of action. With the ball at his feet in the middle of the box, sophomore Gabe Latigue sent a quick blast that was blocked away by Charlotte keeper Klay Davis. Latigue had another opportunity off the rebound but a 49er defender managed to save the ball from crossing the goal line.

Shortly after, rookie midfielder Daniel Lovitz had a good chance from the left side, sliding a shot on goal but directly at Davis who made the stop.

In the late minutes of the half, Charlotte forced Irwin to perform to keep the game scoreless. Beaulieu had back-to-back opportunities with about 15 minutes to go before the break, his first shot being blocked away and the follow sailing wide right. Shortly after, Irwin made a fantastic diving save off a short Niner shot by Evan James.

Elon had a late first-half chance off a free kick by Latigue who sent a beautiful ball deep in the box, but Davis went up and pulled the ball out of the air to clear away any Elon opportunity.

After the early goal in the final period, Irwin made some impressive stops to keep it a one-goal game. The senior posted five saves in the contest.

Charlotte held a 13-9 advantage in shots and a 6-3 edge in corner kicks. The game featured 33 total fouls and five yellow cards.

Elon will be back in action when it hosts Richmond on Friday, September 10 at 7:30 p.m. in the second game of the Elon Classic.