Posted: Sep 01, 2016
ALMA, Mich. -- The men's soccer team opened their 2016 campaign with a hard fought 1-0 loss at Alma.
Alma gained the match's only goal in the seventh minute off a set play.
The Panthers had six shots in the match, led by Edgar Bueno with two. One of Bueno's shots was stopped for Alma's only save.
Greenville goalkeeper Nick Holland collected seven saves as he faced eight shots on goal. Alma had 29 shots in the match.
After what appeared as a very one-sided first half, Greenville made adjustments at halftime and played a tighter match in the second half.
"We overcame some tough conditions tonight to compete with an experienced hard working Alma team," said head coach Chris Swift.
"Overall I am pleased with the game and especially the second half. We were very organized defensively and did a good job to limit their opportunities and especially the quality of their chances."
"I am disappointed to give up a goal on a set piece, but it also reflects our organization in the run of play. I thought we did a good job to give ourselves a chance and we created some quality chances that almost got us back in the game."
"We learn from Alma what the intensity of the college game looks like and I think we will be better for having to deal with their pressure and intensity, and that is what we are looking for at this stage of the season."
"We have a very short turnaround to play a very talented Spring Arbor side tomorrow and we look to build on tonight's performance and continue to prepare ourselves for SLIAC play."
The Panthers (0-1) travel to sister Free Methodist institution Spring Arbor for a contest on Friday night.
