Emmanuel College Sports information Department

FRANKLIN SPRINGS, Ga.--- The Emmanuel Soccer Lions lost 2-0 at the hands of local rivals Southern Wesleyan University last Thursday in the semifinals of the NCCAA South Region Tournament.

The Lions were unable to capitalize on their opportunities as they tallied 20 shots during the game compared to the Warriors' 9.

The Lions' extremely diligent defensive work almost paid dividends in the first half as they put pressure on Southern Wesleyan deep in their half to ensure they couldn't possess out the back. The Lions had chances to take a first half lead, however, Alex Wright (Sheffield, England) fired wide and Eddie Green (Birmingham, England) had a header well saved from an excellent Scott Purdue (London, England) free kick. The chance of the half fell to Green when Wright skipped past two defenders following a short corner, drove into the box and laid the ball back for Green whose shot looked to be heading into the corner but was well saved by goalkeeper Ruben Rodriguez.

The Lions started the second half much like they ended the first by putting Southern Wesleyan under some intense pressure. Unfortunately for the Lions, the Warriors took the lead following a quick counter attack. Joao Oliveira was played through, rounded the keeper and slotted the ball into an empty net. The Lions responded quickly and looked threatening as they won multiple corners and free kicks around the Warriors box, however, they were unable to put the ball in the back of the net.

The Warriors would strike again in the 63rd minute, when a corner was whipped into the near post and deflected into the back of the net to double their lead. As the game drew to a close, both teams began to get more physical especially as Emmanuel looked to mount a comeback. This spurred on the Lions to look for a late goal to start their comeback, and almost got what they deserved when Green played through Morgan Anders (Watkinsville, GA) who cut in on his left foot and shot only to have his powerful effort deflected just past the far post. This would prove to be Emmanuel's last chance of the game as the score would end 2-0 to SWU who advanced to the finals to take on Shorter University where the Warriors won the region title 1-0 over the Hawks.

The Lions would like to thank all the fans who came out for the Semifinal game and for the entire season to support and encourage them to some prolific performances this season. The Lions ended their season with a 10-9 record which is Head Coach Scott Borchers' 3rd season in a row with 10 wins or more in a season.