GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - The University of Saint Francis (Ind.) men's soccer team opened the 2024 season at Cornerstone University on Saturday, August 17. The Cougars would come up short against the Golden Eagles by a final score of 2-0. 

USF had the first shot of the game from Luis Schneider in the second minute of Saturday afternoon's game. The Cougars would hold-off Cornerstone, defending them from taking their first shot of the game until the 27th minute. USF goalkeeper Jannik Reiss would collect his first save on the night in the 41st minute to keep the score tied at 0-0 going into halftime. 

Both teams continued with a strong defensive effort in the second half as the match remained scoreless in the 60th minute. The Golden Eagles broke the scoreless tie with 61:48 on the clock off a corner kick. Cornerstone would again score in the 76th minute to put them on top 2-0. The Cougars would have a few more chances to find the back of the net as USF landed three shots on goal during the remainder of the match, but the Golden Eagles would hang on to win Saturday's season opener 2-0. 

USF outshot Cornerstone 14-9 and won the battle in corner kicks with eight over the Golden Eagles' three. Enrique Subirán, Imtiyaaz Kamaldien and Henning Bundschuh each landed a shot on goal, while Reiss had two saves for the Cougars.

Saint Francis men's soccer (0-1) will travel to Concordia University Ann Arbor for a non-conference match on Wednesday, August 21. The Cougars' first home game is slated for August 27 against Defiance College. 

Cougar fans can stay updated on all events and recaps with USF Athletics by visiting saintfranciscougars.com.