Columbia, SC - The CIU men's soccer team kicked off the 2020 season against the Kentucky Christian University Knights at home on a beautiful fall afternoon. Despite the new normal that the coronavirus pandemic presents, the Rams were eager to take the pitch after a long offseason. CIU would reel in an impressive 4-0 victory over a in conference foe in KCU.
Key Plays:
First Half
- 23:40: The CIU forward found success early on, as Daniel Ospina would convert an opportunity to give CIU the first lead of the game. Opsina was assited by fellow teammate Romulo Barreto.
- 14:07: Rams forward Daniel Ospina gave CIU a 2-0 lead, after a key assist from Rahim Gordon outside the box.
Second Half
- 31:39: Rams midfielder Kenny Kocherschiedt made himself an early goal of the year candidate, a long strike from behind the 18-yard box. Kocherschiedts shot would curve into the net, giving the Rams a 3-0 lead. Praise Kabwe was credited for the assist.
- 30:14: Minutes later, CIU forward Praise Kabwe drew a penalty kick after being fouled in the box. Kabwe would convert the opportunity giving the Rams an insurmountable 4-0 lead.
Key Players
CIU Midfielder - Daniel Ospina
- Ospina's two first-half goals gave CIU a comfortable lead going into halftime.
CIU Forward - Praise Kabwe
- Kabwe recorded a goal and an assist for the Rams, as his impact propelled CIU to victory.
CIU Goal Keeper - Dominik Schileinitz
- Schlienitz return in the blue and gold didn't disappoint, as he recorded the season first clean sheet.
What Coach Brindley is saying:
"It's great to be back on the pitch after a long offseason. Every game is different top to bottom, I was happy to come away with four goals. We still have some things to address and work on, but happy overall with the result."
Up Next:
The Rams have a long wait before their next contest, as they look to host Bluefield College on October 3rd.
