Faulkner’s Sidaly Toure with a header in the Eagles’ season opener at John Mark Stallings Field on Monday. (Photo by Ryan Bartels)

Contributed
(August 24, 2010)

Faulkner University’s men’s soccer team hosted Concordia College in its season opener this afternoon at John Mark Stallings Field. The event wasn’t without its highlights, but the match ended in scoreless tie.

“It’s good to get the first one under our belt,” said head coach Brett Mitchell. “There was a lot of nervous energy out there on the field today and it took a little time to get that worked out.”

The Eagles didn’t start with their usual lineup due to last minute changes over the weekend. That shift resulted in several freshman helping anchor the lineup. Mitchell was happy with the way his young athletes handled the pressure and how key players helped preserve the tempo.

“Our goalkeeper Kevin Saxby played really well today,” Mitchell said. “He stopped a lot of big opportunities for Concordia. Our center backs also did a good job.”

The core 11 found their way onto the field by the second half and the offensive momentum shifted slightly in favor of the home team.

“Everyone feels more confident when they know the best 11 are playing,” Mitchell admitted, “but we had some things we needed to sort out. Overall I’m pleased with the performance. Concordia is very strong this year and it was a good way to get things started.”

With the light fading and both teams facing a handful of other games this week, the coaches decided to call the game after regulation.

The Eagles (0-0-1) will travel to Chattanooga on Wednesday to take on Tennessee Temple, at team Faulkner blasted 13-0 last season. That event is scheduled for 3 p.m.