BLUEFIELD - The Bluefield College Rams men's soccer team claimed a 3-0 win over Grace (Ind.) College, Friday night at East River Soccer Complex, marking the official start of the season for both teams.
The first goal came quick, in the sixth minute when
Salvatore Viola scored off an assist from
Abel Bogale. It was Viola's first goal in his first game as a Ram.
The Rams had a 2nd opportunity to take a 2-0 advantage midway through the first half, after
Abel Bogale was taken out in the penalty area. Viola's PK attempt though was saved by Grace's keeper to keep it 1-0.
The game was evenly matched the rest of the first half.
The start of the second half showed a lot of aggression as the game saw five yellow cards between the two teams and 39 total fouls.
The Rams make a second attack at the Lancers in the 80th minute, off a breakaway.
Joe Stacey's clearance out of the back allowed
Sandro Stalder to get in behind the Lancers back line and create a one on one with the keeper. A last minute pass to
Kevin Stoffle left the net open for another goal.
BC did not let down as they put another ball in the back of the net in the 84th minute from
Abel Bogale off of an assist from
Felipe Brugnari for the last goal of the game.
Brugnari opened himself up from a pass from Stacey, served in a left-footed cross and Bogale settled it in the box and tucked it away in the left corner for the goal.
Bogale finished the game with a goal and an assist and Salvatore & Kevin each had a goal.
Sven Kleinhans came out strong with three saves in goal and recorded a shutout after being injured most of last season.
The Rams look to continue their good fortune on Tuesday, August 29, on their home turf against The Columbia International University Rams.
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