The men's soccer team kicked off the 2024 campaign by playing host to the Monroe Community College Tribunes. The Lakers surrendered an early goal and then were unable to capitlize on their opportunies as they dropped a 2-0 decision at Laker Field. The Tribunes outshot and out numbered the Lakers on corners, but Lakeland's defense was strong as they consistently defended any carriers and prevented many quality scoring chances from occurring. After spotting the Tribunes an early 1-0 advantage, Lakeland came just shy of tying it as a Callum Garrett free kick sailed just wide of an open corner of the goal. The Tribunes would tack on an insurance goal late in the first half as they beat the Laker defense in the middle of the penalty area and were able to tuck in a shot just under Laker netminder, Till Oppermann. In the second half, Lakeland was able to create some more offensive opportunities on counterattacks, but again, were unable to cash in.
Offensively, Garrett, Omar Inga, and Bryon Perez registered shots on goal while Oppermann finished the afternoon with 16 saves.
Player of the Game - Till Oppermann: "It was a real good effort from the team - we showed plenty of fight. This was a good one to build on - we'll correct a few things and get back at it for our next one."
Next Up: Next Friday (9/6), the Lakers will be on the road and play Lorain County Community College in a 4:00 pm match.
