CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – A two-game, season opening road swing ended in a 2-1 defeat for Seattle University men’s soccer following a second-half comeback from the University of North Carolina Tar Heels Sunday night at Dorrance Field.
Enjoying the majority of scoring opportunities early, the Redhawk breakthrough came in the 23rd minute courtesy of sophomore midfielder Edgar Leon. After finding an open Alex Notzka 10 yards from the frame, Notzka drew in two defenders and played a nifty backheel square pass to the open Leon, who calmly slotted the match’s opening goal.
The Redhawks made it their mission to clog the midfield zone in the first half, forcing the Tar Heels to resort to long balls over the top as their attacking option. Head coach Nate Daligcon’s team continued to push for a second, finding penetrating passes in the offensive third to test the North Carolina backline.
UNC eventually would find its footing in the match, zipping passes touchline to touchline to produce 1-on-1 pressure on the Redhawk fullback pairing. Freshman forward Allen Blegay, starting the game at right back, showcased his soccer intelligence and physical presence, locking down the onrushing Tar Heel winger with crunching tackles and close-down speed.
Though the Seattle U defensive unit weathered most of the open-play opportunities from the home side, the Tar Heels earned and converted a penalty after video review in the 40th minute, sending both teams into the halftime break level at 1-1.
The second half saw both sides enjoy spells of possession, with some half chances and free kicks the only offensive markers. Defender Davis Mungomba made his presence known, shutting down Tar Heel breakaways and distributing quickly to spark transition opportunities.
As the physicality turned up, so did the UNC offensive intensity. The hosts found their first lead of the match in the 65th minute, stabbing home a missed clearance in the 6-yard box and earning North Carolina a 2-1 advantage.
The Redhawks rebounded with some set piece chances from corner kicks and free kicks in the wake of the second Tar Heel score, but couldn’t find the finishing touch to return to Seattle with a result.
Seattle U makes the cross-country journey back to Championship Field Thursday, Aug. 28 to take on UNLV for Camper Reunion Night. Kickoff is scheduled for 4 p.m. Pacific.
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