WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Florida Memorial edged the Palm Beach Atlantic men's soccer team 1-0 on Saturday at the Rinker Athletic Campus.
The decisive goal came with 30 seconds left in the second half, securing the win for FMU despite the 'Fish's 11-shot effort. PBA's goalkeeper lost the ball resulting in an open-net opportunity for the Lions who scored to knock off the Sailfish, who entered the game ranked No. 8 in the USC top-25. The 'Fish, who did not play their usual lineup, came up short after besting No. 14-ranked Florida Tech earlier in the week. Tonight's loss marks the first of the season for the Sailfish.
The first half began with PBA setting the tempo, generating multiple opportunities through corner kicks and attempts on goal. Quinlan Van Arkel and
Titus Beuckman were active early with shots, though both were unable to convert. Despite persistent pressure, including a shot off the woodwork by Livio Von Holzen in the 30th minute, the Sailfish were unable to find the back of the net.
Florida Memorial managed a few offensive counters, with shots from Mohamed Sadiki and Frank Sanchez missing the target. Both teams exhibited strong defensive efforts, preventing any goals before the half ended. The first half concluded with a scoreless draw, 0-0. The 'Fish outshot the Lions 8-3 in the half.
The second half began with the Sailfish maintaining a strong defensive stance, highlighted by a critical save from goalkeeper
Flavio Giannini on a bottom-center shot by the Lions' Frank Sanchez at the 48th minute. Despite creating opportunities, including a shot by Van Arkel late in the game and a subsequent attempt by
Marko Borovic, PBA was unable to capitalize on their chances.
As the half progressed, the 'Fish increased their offensive pressure, earning multiple corner kicks between the 81st and 88th minutes. However, the Lions broke through in the 89th minute with a goal from Khaim Brice, assisted by Luigi Gallo, which ultimately decided the match. The half closed with Palm Beach Atlantic trailing, resulting in a 1-0 defeat. PBA finished with 11 corner kicks compared to just one for FMU.
Giannini recorded one save in goal for the Sailfish while facing nine shots.
Ole Lichter led the team in offensive attempts with three shots, one of which was on target. Van Arkel matched Lichter's effort with three shots and one on goal. Borovic contributed to the attack with two additional shots.
PBA returns to SSC competition on Wednesday when it travels to Embry-Riddle. The match in Daytona Beach, Fla. takes place at 6 p.m.