Union holds off Delta State rally for 2-1 men’s soccer victory

Union University held off a second-half rally by Delta State University for a 2-1 men's soccer victory Wednesday afternoon at Delta Field in Cleveland. The Bulldogs took a two-goal lead before the Statesmen responded after halftime.

Decker Burns opened the scoring for Union in the 24th minute, assisted by Solomon Pela. Ashanie Kennedy added a goal in the 33rd minute off a Freddie Westfall assist, giving Union a 2-0 advantage at halftime.

Delta State answered in the 55th minute when Ivan Gomez scored his first goal of the season off an assist from Sioni Benham. The goal cut Union's lead to 2-1, but the Statesmen could not find an equalizer despite continued pressure.

Delta State finished with a 16-7 advantage in shots and led 8-4 in corner kicks. Six of the Statesmen's shots were on target. Union goalkeeper Patrick Schott made five saves, while Delta State goalkeeper Daniel Santema recorded one save.

Callum Black led Delta State with three shots. Matthew Nicklas and Benham each had two shots.

Delta State will continue GSC play Saturday at Delta Field against the Chargers from UAH at approximately 3:30 p.m.

Source: Delta State Athletics.