Men’s Soccer Drops 2-0 Decision at Duke

Tuesday, October 23

Durham, N.C.

7:00 p.m.

Davidson College

6-9-1

Duke

6-7-1

Davidson

Duke University

Photo by: Tim Cowie - DavidsonPhotos.com

10/23/2012 9:09:00 PM | Men's Soccer

Box Score

Find Your Favorite Wildcat Action Shot at DavidsonPhotos.com

DURHAM, N.C. – Despite Davidson holding the edge in shots, Duke made the most of its scoring opportunities with an early goal in each half to get by the Wildcats, 2-0, in non-conference men's soccer action Tuesday evening at Koskinen Stadium.

“Statistically it was a good game in that we attempted more shots and forced more saves in an away game against a talented ACC team,” said Davidson head coach Matt Spear.

The loss drops the Wildcats to 6-9-1 overall, while the Blue Devils improve to 6-7-1.

Not long after Davidson's Peter Paras hit the cross bar on the game's first shot, Jack Coleman gave Duke the early 1-0 lead in the 8th minute with his first goal of the 2012 campaign.

The Wildcats started the second half fast with a pair of attempts from Paras, but was unable to get the much-needed equalizer.

The Blue Devils made it a two-goal contest at the 52:54 mark when Zach Mathers' centering pass set up an open net for Will Donovan.

“We're not pleased about giving up two goals the way we did early in each half. The difference in the match was Duke converted both its scoring opportunities," Spear commented.

Paras led the Wildcats with a game-high six shots, including three on goal. Brian McGue, Chris Pettiglio and Ryan Malden also put shots on frame for Davidson.

The Wildcats finished with a 9-8 advantage in shots.

James Belshaw turned away all six Davidson shots on goal to lead both keepers in saves.

Davidson will conclude its regular season and conference slate Saturday evening with a 7 p.m. kick-off at Appalachian State.

“Saturday's match is crucial to get back our confidence. It's crucial that we don't stop believing. We must give our best at the end."