INDIANAPOLIS - The Marian men's soccer team lost their first home match of the 2022 season Saturday afternoon, getting shutout at home by a 3-0 score at the hands Cumberland University. Marian's record drops to 3-2-1 on the year after the non-conference defeat.
The Knights and Phoenix each made strong pushes in the opening 10 minutes of play Saturday afternoon, with each team managing a shot attempt as they established their shape. Marian ripped off a pair of shots in a 10 second window that were blocked by Phoenix defenders in the 11th minute, but the offense could not keep up with Cumberland. The Phoenix responded with a pair of corner kicks over the next five minutes, and in the 18th minute Brima Kamara scored the game's first goal for Cumberland.
The Phoenix contined to attack the Marian net, keeping Brendan Weiger busy throughout the half. Weiger made managed a save and got help from his defense to steer a pair of shots wide of frame, but in the 35th minute fell victim to another Kamara goal, as Marian fell behind 2-0. In the first half Marian was out-shot 12-4, while trailing on the scoreboard 2-0.
Alvaro Rueda took over in goal with Marian losing at the half, and came up with an early save in his first four minutes of work. Rueda was unable to stay perfect in net, as he allowed a goal in the 53rd minute to Robbie Lyons. Lyons score was the final of the game, as Marian was unable to generate their offense and find a clean look on frame. The Knights would manage just one shot on goal in the final 37 minutes, but the header from Kyle Alb was punched over the crossbar. Cumberland allowed just one Marian shot attempt for the duration of the game after Alb's 71st minute knock, as they fell 3-0.
The Knights were out-shot 21-6 for the game, with the Phoenix taking nine shots on goal. Weiger took the loss in net, making four saves while allowing two goals in his first half work. Rueda made two saves, and did not factor into the match decision. Six different Marian players took a shot, with Alb taking the only look on goal.
Marian will travel to Oakland City on Wednesday afternoon, as they start their final non-conference week of the regular season.
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