Box Score LAS VEGAS, NEV. - In the second leg of their three-game road trip, the Stetson Hatters clashed with the UNLV Rebels in a tightly contested soccer match that ultimately ended in a 1-1 draw.

The first half of the match was a captivating back-and-forth affair. With both teams locked in an intense struggle for control, the scoreboard remained goalless, adding to the suspense on the pitch.

Stetson and UNLV attempted four shots each and earned two corner kicks apiece. However, the Hatters managed to edge out the Rebels with a 3-2 advantage in shots on goal, showing their trademark aggressiveness in the attacking department.

It wasn't until the 70th minute that the game's first breakthrough occurred when the Rebels broke the deadlock with a low right shot, taking a 1-0 lead.

As the clock ticked toward crunch time, the Hatters were determined to net an equalizing goal. Summoning their fighting spirit, Stetson managed to level the score at 1-1 in the 83rd minute. Senior forward Luis Lara was the hero of the moment, punching the ball into the net, thanks to an assist from Andres Rodriguez. This goal marked Lara's second of the year, with his previous strike dating back to the team's 7-0 victory over St. Thomas on September 1st.

Despite the thrilling exchange of blows on the field, neither team could find the decisive goal in the remaining minutes, resulting in a hard-fought draw, marking the second of which for the Hatters this season.

Throughout the match, Stetson once again showcased their offensive capabilities, outshooting the Rebels 13-8, with a notable 9-4 advantage in the second half. The Hatters attempted more shots on goal, tallying 7 to UNLV's 4, but the Rebels had the edge in corner kicks, leading 4-3.

In the heart of the action, goalkeeper Nicolo Radaelli stood tall, facing 8 shots and making three crucial saves to keep the Hatters in contention. The offensive front was led by Charles Ahl, who took four shots, while Lara and Andres Freire contributed with 3 and 2 shots, respectively, each testing the opposing goalkeeper with two shots on target.

On the defensive end, the Hatters saw the season debut of defenders Alvaro Gabancho and Giuseppe Croce, making their first starts alongside the seasoned defender Andres Rodriguez, with all three players going the full 90 minutes

Looking ahead, the Stetson Hatters, now 2-2-2, will continue their road trip but make a return to the Sunshine State, where they are set to kick off conference play. Their next challenge awaits as they face North Florida, scheduled for a 7:00 pm kickoff on Saturday, September 16th, at Hodges Stadium in Jacksonville.

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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