Ravens Open HCAC Action with Victory Over Panthers

The Anderson University men's soccer team (4-4-1, 1-0) defeated Hanover College (2-5-2, 0-1) in Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference (HCAC) action by a score of 3-0 on Sunday at Macholtz Stadium.

This is Anderson's first victory over Hanover College since October 7, 2012, a 1-0 win in Anderson. 

The Ravens jumped on Hanover from the first kick and found the back of the net just two minutes into the contest, courtesy of Rico Mandolini rebounding a shot on goal from Caleb Opoku. Opoku received the assist. Anderson kept their foot on the gas, causing Hanover to put the ball into their own net in the 13th minute after a Drew Vaughn throw-in. 

Despite leading 2-0 at the half, Anderson trailed in shots 6-3. Hanover picked up the pressure in the second half, outshooting the Ravens 13-4. Matthew Murray found the back of the net after a Panther turnover left him with an open shot. 

Ryan McClure and Jack Harris led the Raven's defense with four steals each. Jaxon Gillig recorded a defensive save for the Ravens.

Braydon Kennedy was a brick wall in goal for the Ravens, stopping all eight shots on goal faced, earning his second career shutout, and adding six intercepts. 

McClure was named The Raven's Raven.

COACH SCOTT FRIDLEY'S COMMENTS

I thought we came out much like we have the whole season, getting things going early and having opportunities to be successful.

The difference was getting a few early goals to give us some confidence. I think the freshmen played very well tonight, but our seniors really came to play and showed real leadership to get us over the hump.

I am very proud of the boys. They work hard and train hard, and this is a reflection of their hard work. Any time you beat a team as well coached as Hanover, the boys should be proud of it. They worked hard, but tonight, I feel like we won small battles all over the field. It is a great way to start the conference.

UP NEXT

The Ravens continue HCAC action when they take on Mount St. Joseph University (1-6-1, 0-0-1) at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 5, in Cincinnati.