ROCKY MOUNT, N.C. – Averett University men's soccer neared a clutch draw at N.C. Wesleyan University on Sunday afternoon, but the Battling Bishops scored a late goal to down the Cougars, 2-1.
N.C. Wesleyan (2-4-0) pushed in the final minutes of the contest. The home team drew a corner kick that found its way to an open Jordi Rodriguez in the right side of the penalty box, who shot one through to the opposite left corner for the go-ahead strike in the 86th minute.
Averett (2-2-1) started up the rally as the clock nearly struck minute number 24. A potential clear from the Battling Bishops defense ended up finding its way to a lurking
Gavin Blanks, who then maneuvered around the goalkeeper to place the visitors up, 1-0. Just like the previous contest, a newcomer scored for the first time in the navy and gold, as Blanks opened his collegiate tally.
A stalemate ensued for nearly 50 minutes, spanning until late in the second half. Max Elizarde equalized for N.C. Wesleyan in the 72nd minute, slotting in a low cross from Rodriguez.
Anibal Lopez faced pressure behind net, but came up with five saves on the afternoon.
Averett heads back to Danville, Virginia for a home contest on Wednesday, Sept. 17, as the Cougars welcome Randolph-Macon College in a non-conference contest. Start time is set for 7 p.m.
