The Lindenwood men’s soccer team began their spring season with a match against Lewis and Clark Community College. This game marked the debut of several new players, while a few Lindenwood players were sidelined due to injuries. The match started with high intensity as Lindenwood’s Jordan Matthews scored the opening goal with an “Olimpico,” a goal directly from a corner kick.
The first half was an exciting contest, with Lindenwood dominating possession and scoring four goals. Graduate player John Gates netted the second goal, followed by senior Josh Francombe with the third. Freshman Hudson Scheiber, who had missed the fall season due to injury, scored the fourth goal of the half. The Lions continued to press their advantage, while Lewis and Clark had a few opportunities from set pieces. Sophomore goalkeeper Mason Shale made several crucial saves to maintain a clean sheet. There was also a disallowed goal when a free kick from Lindenwood was sent toward the Lewis and Clark goalie, resulting in a 50-50 challenge with the goalie. Although the ball ended in the net, the goal was ruled out. As well as a yellow card for each side Noe Bijou Lindenwood Defender was handed a yellow card after bringing down a Lewis and Clark player outside the Lindenwood box.
In the second half, the Lions shifted their focus more toward defense, while still seeking to extend their lead. Lewis and Clark earned a significant chance to score with a penalty kick, but freshman goalkeeper Alex Drexler made a vital save to preserve the shutout. The second half was more physical as Lewis and Clark received an early yellow card. Throughout this half, Lindenwood maintained control of possession, ultimately securing a 4-0 victory and marking a strong start to their spring season.
Both sophomore Mason Shale and freshman Alex Drexler earned clean sheets in goal. The Man of the Match for the Lions was newcomer defender Mikey Lennon. The men’s team will next face their former GLVC rivals, Maryville University, on April 12 at Maryvill
