DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - In the final tune-up game before the season opener, the Embry-Riddle men's soccer team dropped an exhibition match against Daytona State by a final score of 3-2 at the ERAU Soccer Stadium.
It was a quiet first half as neither squad could get anything going offensively. The Eagles and Falcons combined for just five shots through the first 45 minutes. However, the opportunities opened up following halftime.
Daytona State started the scoring in the 51st minute when Embry-Riddle was called for a foul against the Falcons inside the penalty area. Curtez Kellman then converted on his penalty kick to put Daytona State ahead 1-0.
The Blue and Gold responded with a pair of accurate shots from Eden Bokobza to shift the momentum. In the 63rd minute,
Teddy West sent a corner kick into the box. Bokobza crashed toward the goal and headed the ball past the Falcons' goalkeeper to tie the game. Then in the 74th minute,
Amit Libgot sent a perfect cross to Bokobza, who lunged forward and sent another header to the back of the net to put the Eagles up 2-1.
Three minutes later, Kevin Kelly scored the equalizer for the Falcons when he took a low shot that just inched inside the left post. With under five minutes remaining, Daytona State took the lead on Daniel Bedoya's goal to down Embry-Riddle.
The Eagles were outshot by the Falcons 9-8. Embry-Riddle also trailed 4-3 in shots on goal.
The Eagles will begin preparation for the home opener on Saturday, September 4, against Southern Nazarene. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.
The 2021 Embry-Riddle Men's Soccer season is presented by Radiology Associates.
