COLUMBIA, S.C. — CIU men's soccer dropped a 1-0 decision to (RV) Southeastern University on Tuesday at Sessions Field, as a second-half goal proved to be the difference in a tightly contested match.
The Rams (2-2-1) kept Southeastern scoreless through the opening 45 minutes and finished the match with 10 shots, including two on goal. CIU goalkeeper Vasilios Diakomihalis made five saves in a strong individual performance, keeping the Rams within striking distance throughout the contest.
CIU created opportunities early, with Nathan King recording two shots in the opening two minutes. Both attempts were blocked as the Rams looked to establish an attacking presence.
The Rams continued to generate chances as the half progressed. Elias Jonsson registered two shots, while Ive Celic added another attempt. Neither team found the back of the net before halftime, with the match remaining scoreless.
Southeastern increased its offensive pressure after the break, but CIU's defense and Diakomihalis continued to keep the match within reach. Diakomihalis made saves on several Southeastern attempts during the second half, including one in the 68th minute and another in the 73rd minute.
Southeastern finally broke through in the 66th minute, scoring at 65:26 to take a 1-0 lead.
CIU responded by pushing forward in search of an equalizer. King forced another save in the 67th minute, and Andreas Kosta had a shot blocked in the 84th minute. The Rams also earned three corner kicks during the final 12 minutes, creating additional opportunities to level the match.
King finished with a team-high five shots and two shots on goal. Kosta recorded one shot and helped CIU generate four corner kicks overall.
Despite being outshot 23-10, CIU held Southeastern to just six shots on goal.
CIU returns to action Sept. 19, opening Appalachian Athletic play against No. 24 Union Commonwealth with an opportunity to build on its 2-2-1 start to the season.
