October 5, 2024
Plainview, TX – The Nelson University Lions men's soccer team faced a challenging Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC) contest on the road Saturday morning, falling 3-0 to Wayland Baptist University. Despite strong efforts from goalkeeper David Calvete Beltran, who recorded six saves, the Lions were unable to overcome a relentless offensive display by Wayland.
The match began with Wayland Baptist quickly asserting control, scoring their first goal just nine minutes in through Jamol Williams, capitalizing on a fast start. Nelson's defense, led by Javaughn Hines, Pedro Figueiredo Mattoso, and Dillon Cecil Du Toit, worked hard to contain Wayland's attack, but the pressure was unyielding.
Nelson University had difficulty finding offensive rhythm in the first half, managing only two shots, both of which were saved by Wayland's goalkeeper. At halftime, the Lions trailed 1-0, knowing they would need to regroup and find more attacking opportunities in the second half.
Unfortunately for the Lions, Wayland Baptist struck again in the 56th minute, with Val Gonzalez extending the lead to 2-0. Nelson's attempts to recover were thwarted as Wayland's defense remained solid, limiting the Lions to just four shots (two on goal) throughout the game.
In the 87th minute, Vito Zatikyan sealed the game for Wayland with a third goal, wrapping up the 3-0 scoreline. The Lions fought valiantly until the final whistle but were unable to break through Wayland's defense.
Though the scoreline didn't go their way, the Lions displayed moments of strong defending, with David Calvete Beltran making crucial saves to keep his team within reach. Pedro Figueiredo Mattoso and Ethan Stewart provided Nelson's best offensive chances, but the Wayland Baptist defense proved too much to overcome on the day's matchup
Next Up?
The Lions will hit the road again to take on Southwestern Christian University in Bethany, Oklahoma, on Thursday, October 10th. Kickoff is set for 3:00 PM as Nelson looks to bounce back and claim a critical win in their SAC journey.
Nelson University (formerly SAGU) is a private Christian university, established in 1927 by P.C. Nelson. The University is located 30 minutes south of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex in Waxahachie, Texas, and offers more than 70 associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees on campus or online. For more information, visit www.nelson.edu or by calling 1-888-YES-SAGU.
