DELAND, Fla. - The Stetson Hatters men's soccer team faced off against the visiting Embry-Riddle Eagles on Wednesday, October 11 at the ATC for senior night as the Hatters recognized 11 seniors prior to the contest. The seniors acknowledged were Michael Smith, Alvaro Gabancho, Kelvin Zinck, Nathan Metsack, Alessandro Gabbani, Luis Lara, Steele Norton, Jared Fuentes, Jayden Gonsalves, Michael Kutsanzira, and Eric Bizanos.

The game began with Stetson showing their usual urgency. Steele Norton began the game with a shot attempt, and shortly after, Alessandro Gabbani attempted a shot on target less than three minutes into the game, but the Eagles' goalkeeper managed to make the save. Michael Smith, Stetson's goalkeeper, had to make a couple of saves to keep the score level.

The first goal of the match came in the 43rd minute when Lara, last week's ASUN Offensive Player of the Week, found the back of the net. Gabriel Toro provided the assist for Lara's goal, marking his third goal in the past two games. Stetson led at halftime, outshooting Embry-Riddle 5-4, with both teams having two shots on goal.

The second half saw an unfortunate turn of events for Stetson, as they conceded an own goal in the 52nd minute. The Eagles then took the lead in the 68th minute with a penalty kick goal. A little over three minutes later, in the 71st minute, the Eagles extended their lead with another goal.

Despite trailing, the Hatters increased their intensity in an effort to reduce the deficit, but the Eagles managed to find the back of the net for the fourth and final time in the 86th minute.

Although Stetson was unable to secure a victory, they managed to outshoot the Eagles 12-8, while the Eagles had more shots on goal, leading 5-4. Michael Smith, who started in goal for the Hatters, made two saves on the night.

The Hatters will be back in action on Saturday, October 14, when they head to Conway, Arkansas, to take on the University of Central Arkansas Bears as they return to conference play.

 About Stetson University Athletics: Stetson University's Athletics Program is driven by a shared purpose. It is what inspires, motivates and binds us together. More than a task, a reason for being. THE HATTER PURPOSE is to create and provide an experience of a lifetime through teamwork and relationships to achieve excellence. This purpose is achieved through five Core Values: Communication, Integrity, Excellence, Value People and Commitment. To learn more about the HATS program and our Core Values, visit GoHatters.com/HATS.

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