DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – The Embry-Riddle men's soccer team faced a formidable challenge against the top-ranked Lynn University in a thrilling match marked by the best weather of the season. In a game filled with action and goals, the final score was Fighting Knights 5, Eagles 2.
The first half began cautiously, with both teams testing each other. However, the Fighting Knights quickly shifted into form, breaking the deadlock in the 20th minute. A stunning strike from Barroso Rennstitch, launched from outside the box, soared into the top right corner. They continued to press hard, leading to a well-executed three-man play: Fabio Menzel's cross found Luis Kiefer, who deftly flicked it to Lucas Vila, adding another goal for the Knights in the 29th minute. Just two minutes later, Kiefer showcased his speed, outracing two Eagles defenders to score and extend Lynn's led to 3-0.
The Eagles responded with urgency, and just 20 seconds after the third goal, a well-placed cross from
Ethan Rosenblum found
Sandro Henning, who netted his second goal of the season. The first half concluded with the Fighting Knights ahead 3-1, but the Eagles were determined to fight back.
The second half saw the Eagles emerge with renewed energy aiming to start the way they finished the first half. Freshman
Fabian Hilpert made his presence felt, generating two corner kicks that were skillfully defended by the Knights. A pivotal moment arrived when Eagles' defender
James Feeley fouled a Fighting Knight in the box, leading to a penalty kick. Max Lambertz approached the spot with confidence, but Eagles' goalkeeper
Tommy Fellowes had other plans. With a strong hand, he deflected Lambertz's well-placed shot wide, marking a highlight for the Eagles.
The Fighting Knights soon found their fourth goal at 68:14, courtesy of a corner from Barroso, which Anton Mand converted with a powerful header. Despite Hilpert's multiple attempts to find the net, the Eagles struggled to capitalize on their opportunities. A late foul just outside the box set up Joao Negrao for a stunning strike into the left corner, further extending the Knights' lead 40 minutes into the half. The scoring finished when
Kaden Stoddard tapped in a cross from Tom Shepard to get another goal on the board with two minutes left in the game, finalizing the score at Fighting Knights 5, Eagles 2.
The Eagles look to bounce back on Saturday when they travel to Miami Shores, Florida where they take on Barry University at 7 p.m.
The 2024 Embry-Riddle men's soccer season is presented by Radiology Associates.
