Salina, Kan. - Friends University men's soccer continued its strong start to KCAC play Saturday afternoon (Sep. 19), earning a 1-0 shutout victory over Kansas Wesleyan University.
The Falcons wasted little time getting on the scoreboard, with Diego Marin finding the back of the net in the 8th minute to give Friends an early 1-0 advantage. Eduardo Enrique Gomez Montt provided the assist on Marin's 5th goal of the season, which leads the team.
Friends controlled the majority of the offensive opportunities throughout the match, recording 22 shots compared to just four for the Coyotes. The Falcons also held a 12-2 advantage in corner kicks.
Despite the narrow scoreline, Friends consistently pressured the Kansas Wesleyan defense. The Falcons recorded nine shots in the opening half and added 13 more after halftime, putting 12 total shots on target.
Kansas Wesleyan managed only one shot on goal in the opening half and three total attempts after the break. Goalkeeper Keagan Lewis turned aside both shots he faced in the afternoon to preserve his clean sheet.
The Falcons continued to create opportunities throughout the second half but were unable to add to their lead. Friends' defense held firm in the closing minutes, securing the 1-0 victory and the team's second consecutive shutout.
Marin led Friends with four shots, including three on goal, while Kal Coulthard added three shots and two on target. Gomez Montt recorded two shots and an assist, while Ben Scognamillo and Greyson York each contributed three shots.
With the victory, Friends improves to 4-2-1 overall and 2-0-0 in KCAC play. The last time men's soccer started 2-0 in conference play was in the 2022 season.
Friends will remain on the road for its next KCAC matchup, traveling to Bethany College on Saturday, (Sep. 26). Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. in Lindsborg, Kan.
