Box Score GOSHEN, Ind. –  Madonna University's Men's Soccer Team opened the 2024 season with a great team win over Goshen College with a final score of 2-1. 

HOW IT HAPPENED:
The Crusaders entered the 2024 season looking to start off strong which is exactly what they did. The Crusaders started the game off aggressive and in the 19th minute of the first half, Corey Matthews would start the scoring in the 2024 campaign for the Crusaders off an assist from Andres Gomez to take a quick 1-0 lead. Two minutes later in the 21st minute it would again be the same connection between Gomez and Matthews off a beautiful pass from Gomez from the left side of the field to the right post where he would find a wide open Matthews for his second goal of the game and a 2-0 lead heading into halftime. 
In the second half, the Crusaders would look to hold onto the lead while Goshen came out much more aggressive than in the first half where they would find their first goal of the game off a loose ball in front of the net to make it a 2-1 game. Despite Goshen's efforts the Crusaders defense was able to hold off their attack and walk away 1-0 to start the season with a 2-1 victory.  

INSIDE THE NUMBERS:

• Despite the score, Goshen outshot the Crusaders 18-8
• Afonso Henrique would finish in goal with eight saves
• Matthews would finish with two goals on two shots

UP NEXT:
The Crusaders will return to the pitch on Friday, August 23rd as they travel to Petoskey, Mich. in a neutral site matchup with Northern Michigan University. Kickoff is set for 1:15 PM.    

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