JEFFERSON CITY, Tenn. - In an extremely physical game, the Lincoln Memorial University men's soccer team (1-0 South Atlantic Conference) defeated Carson-Newman 1-0 in a road contest Thursday evening. With a shortened season due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the win gives LMU a crucial three points in the early going.

"I'm very proud of our group and how much we've grown since I arrived here," head coach Robert Spain noted. "Last year, we were in the same position going into halftime and were unable to put the game away. This year, our maturity showed and I'm pleased at how we used our experience to get the result."

Despite being outshot 18-1, the Railsplitters converted their lone chance as FD De Santiago slotted home a Shanden Vergara ball into the box in the 28th minute. Although the veteran Eagles gave themselves a multitude of opportunities to score and two balls went off the crossbar or post, they were unable to capitalize as LMU went on to gain the conference victory.

"With so many youngsters in the lineup (four freshmen starting), I'm very happy that we were able to beat a seasoned group that won the conference regular season title in 2019," Spain continued. "By no means did we play up to what I believe our potential is, but we worked hard and were able to get a positive result. We have a lot of work to do over the coming weeks with several important games coming up."

Robin Hermann excelled in goal as he made ten total saves against the constant Carson-Newman pressure, including a couple of diving efforts in the first half.

The Railsplitters will be back in action against Tusculum on Thursday, Mar. 4. Match time is slated for 3:30 p.m.