BLACK MOUNTAIN, N.C. — The Montreat College men's soccer team rallied for a 2-1 victory over Bryan College on Saturday in an Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) matchup. After trailing at halftime, the Cavaliers scored twice in the second frame to complete the comeback. With the win, the Cavs improved to 4-6-5 overall (2-6-2 AAC), while BC fell to 2-8-3 (2-5-3 AAC).
Montreat created several opportunities early after Adrian Torres stopped an initial header 5:33 into the contest. Jose Solano delivered corner kicks in the eighth and 11th minutes, while Ricardas Milasius had an attempt blocked just under 20 minutes in. Bryan opened the scoring at the 20:53 mark to take a 1-0 lead. The hosts continued searching for a tally, as Sako Mo sent two tries high around a save on Emilio Ruiz's shot in the 31st minute. Alejandro Hernandez tested the opposing goalkeeper again in the 45th minute, but the Lions carried their advantage into halftime.
The hosts came out aggressively after the break, recording four shots and earning two corner kicks in the opening five minutes. Milasius struck the post in the 59th minute before Hernandez leveled the match 15:55 into the period off an assist from Ruiz.
The Cavaliers sustained their attacking pressure after the equalizer, creating additional chances through corner kicks, saved shots and blocked attempts after the 73rd minute. Those efforts paid off with 10:03 remaining when Viktor Mladenov finished a Gabriel Caskett assist to give Montreat a 2-1 lead. The Lions threatened to draw level with two corner kicks in the final three minutes, but the Cavs held on to secure the AAC win.
"We had to adjust how we were pressing after that first half," said Head Coach Michael Bruce. "Bryan was doing very well, so we had to force it more into the inside. The mentality was we have nothing to lose right now. We have to score and win, so let's go for it. The guys worked super hard and finished it off very well."
Montreat held advantages in shots (19-9), shots on goal (9-2) and corner kicks (6-5) while committing 10 fouls. The visitors were called for 12 fouls and recorded seven saves compared to the Cavaliers' one.
Mladenov scored the game-winner, putting both of his shots on target, while Hernandez also found the net and finished with two shots on goal. Mo led Montreat with five attempts, including one on frame, and Ruiz contributed an assist and three shots, one of which was on goal. Torres played all 90 minutes in net, allowing one goal and making one save.
The Cavs return to Pulliam Stadium for their home finale and senior night on Wednesday, Oct. 28, against the University of Pikeville. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. in Black Mountain, N.C.
