Heading into the first game of the season, a head coach always has a few lingering concerns about the team. For Heidelberg University men’s soccer coach, Dr. Brian Haley, the concerns surrounded the preparedness of his youthful squad.
The young Heidelberg squad (0-1) dropped a 2-0 match to Geneva College (1-1) on Saturday at Oberlin College. Jeb Nash had both goals for the Golden Tornadoes, scoring on a penalty kick in the 25th minute and off a cross in the 89th minute.
Despite not getting the result that he wanted, Haley was pleased with his team’s performance.
“Our freshmen played remarkably well,” said Haley, in his 24th year. “I thought we were a bit unlucky, but this game was a major step in the right direction.”
Andy Lacefield (North Lima, Ohio / South Range) and Ryan Homoki (Grafton/Midview) each were major contributors, according to Haley. Homoki had a team-high four shots.
Matthew Stevens (South Lyon, MI), making his first collegiate start, had three saves.
“We need to string together three or four games with this type of attitude,” said Haley. “That will really set us up well for the rest of the season.”
Haley’s squad will be back on the pitch Sunday, where they will face host Oberlin College at 7 p.m. The game will be streamed live online.