NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Stetson men's soccer delivered one of its most complete attacking performances of the season Saturday night, using a three-goal first half to race past Lipscomb, 4-1, at the Lipscomb Soccer Complex.
The Hatters wasted little time taking control in Music City, turning a productive opening 45 minutes into their largest halftime advantage of the season. Stetson generated 10 shots before the break and converted three of those opportunities, building a commanding 3-0 lead before adding a fourth goal in the second half to secure its second ASUN victory of the season.
Graduate midfielder Afonso Conde powered the attack with his first multi-goal performance of the season, finding the back of the net twice on three shots while putting both of his shots on goal. The brace continued a strong offensive campaign for Conde, who entered the night tied for the team lead with two goals and doubled that total in Nashville.
Benjamin Donato also played a major role in the four-goal outburst, finishing with a goal and an assist for a three-point night. Donato's goal ultimately stood as the game winner, while Matthew Perez continued to create opportunities in the attacking third, leading Stetson with four shots and adding an assist.
The offensive production was backed by another steady performance from freshman goalkeeper Murillo Mello. Lipscomb increased its pressure after halftime and ultimately finished with a 20-18 advantage in shots, but Mello turned away five attempts over the full 90 minutes. The Hatters held the Bisons to just one goal despite the hosts' second-half push, while Stetson put six of its 18 attempts on frame.
Saturday's four goals matched Stetson's season high, previously set in a 4-1 victory over Presbyterian on Sept. 15. It also marked the Hatters' first road victory of the season after opening the year with five matches away from DeLand without a win.
The victory moves Stetson to 3-6-2 overall and 2-3-0 in ASUN play, while Lipscomb falls to 3-6-1 overall and 2-2-0 in conference action.
Stetson will remain on the road for a quick turnaround, traveling to Tampa for a nonconference matchup with South Florida on Tuesday, Oct. 6. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Corbett Stadium.
About Stetson Athletics
At Stetson University, student-athletes don't just compete—they thrive. Located in historic DeLand, Florida, between Orlando and Daytona Beach, Stetson offers the perfect blend of competitive athletics, academic excellence, and an unbeatable Central Florida lifestyle. As the oldest private university in the region, Stetson supports approximately 500 student-athletes across 19 NCAA Division I sports. Nicknamed the "Hatters" after the institution's namesake John B. Stetson, a hat manufacturer who originated the modern-day cowboy hat, most Stetson athletic teams compete in the Atlantic Sun Conference, where they proudly hold the longest active membership since 1985. With top-tier facilities, personalized support, and a welcoming campus community, Stetson is where students can grow, compete, and succeed. Learn more at GoHatters.com or follow social media accounts @StetsonHatters.
