Tampa, Fla. – The Embry-Riddle men's soccer team faced off against the University of Tampa at Pepin Stadium for both teams' first game of the 2024 Sunshine State Conference season. Despite a spirited effort, the Eagles fell short, losing 3-1 to the Spartans in a tightly contested match.

The Eagles came out strong, demonstrating a more aggressive approach than in previous match-ups. Yali Shiray fired off the first shot just nine minutes into the game, setting the tone for the Eagles' offensive intent. However, the first half ended in a stalemate, with both teams struggling to break the tie. The Eagles led in shots, hitting four on goal while holding the Spartans to just two. Both defenses showcased their strength, resulting in a scoreless first half.

As the second half unfolded, the Spartans seized the initiative, dominating possession and pressuring the Eagles' defense. Despite this, it was Embry-Riddle who struck first. A well-executed corner kick from Fabian Hilpert found Eden Bokobza, who powered a header into the back of the net for his first goal of the season, giving the Eagles a brief 1-0 lead.

However, the momentum shifted quickly. Just minutes later, Jack Hartford equalized with a well-placed shot to the bottom right corner (81:19), followed closely by Pablo Marques, who took advantage of a goalkeeping error to give Tampa a 2-1 lead (82:29). This wasn't the end of the heartache for the Eagles who gave up another goal with just two-minute left in the game. The Eagles were unable to find a way back, resulting in a 3-1 loss.

Looking ahead, the Eagles will return to ERAU Soccer Stadium on Saturday, where they will host Florida Tech at 7 p.m.

The 2024 Embry-Riddle men's soccer season is presented by Radiology Associates.