DURHAM, N.C. – Appalachian State University men's soccer fell to Duke on Tuesday evening by a final score of 2-0.
The Mountaineers (3-5-1) hung tough for most of the match against their ACC foe – the Blue Devils. The comparison in shots was narrow at 13-10 in favor of Duke, while corner kicks were matched at three a piece and the Mountaineers didn't back off intensity wise as the fouls were almost even.
"Once we weathered the storm in the first 10 minutes, we responded well and possessed well," said head coach Matt Nelson. "We gave up two poor goals and it was tough to recover. The performance and effort was good, but once again, the result eluded us."
Trey Hemphill led the team in shots with three, while Stanley Broaden and Donovan Japp finished with two shots each.
Duke struck first in the 21st minute when Zach Mathers scored unassisted on a chip over Paul West's head from about 30 yards.
The Blue Devil's second goal came late in the game in the 80th minute on a penalty kick that was converted by Mathers.
West made four saves in the match for the Mountaineers, while the defense earned two team saves on the night.
"Starting this Friday, we need to realize that results are what matter and we need to start our conference season off on the right foot," said Nelson.
The Mountaineers return to action on Friday, Oct. 3 when they travel to Hartwick for their first Sun Belt Conference match of the season. Kick off is set for 7 p.m.
- appstatesports.com -
- @appstate_sports -
- @AppStateMSoccer -
