FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – The Nova Southeastern men's soccer team (1-1) will play its home opener Sunday, Sept. 13 at 1 p.m. against the St. Thomas Bobcats (1-1) at the NSU Soccer Complex.
NSU enters the match after a rollercoaster opening weekend in which the Sharks played in three matches in a five day span. The Sharks opened the season at Mississippi College, taking the Choctaws down, 3-1. The game was sealed by goals from a trio of seniors in
Stefano Fanfoni (Cremona, Italy),
Matthias Bruno (Rome, Italy) and
Juan Rodriguez (Lima, Peru). NSU fell behind early in the match, but through an up tempo style and plenty of depth, were able to quickly equalize and take over the match.
NSU carried its momentum into the second match against Delta State two days later, scoring early to lead DSU before the 44th minute. However, prior to the halftime whistle, lightning entered the area and the match was never finished. The goal from freshman
Nate Bladecki (Troy, Mich.) as well as the match was expunged from the records. After a disappointing cancellation, the Sharks traveled to Livingston, Ala. for a tough matchup against West Alabama, Hero Sports' 11th ranked team in the nation. In its third match in five days, the Sharks could not secure the result they desired, falling 3-0.
Despite the loss, the Sharks will enter the match on six days rest and will be looking to defeat the Bobcats for the 22nd time in program history. The match will also serve as the final run through before Sunshine State Conference matches begin. The Sharks are slated to host Florida Southern on Sept. 16 at 7 p.m., kicking off league play in the nation's best conference.
St. Thomas is one of NSU's most common opponents and always presents a challenge for the Sharks. This season, the Bobcats are 1-1 with a win over Talladega, 4-1, and a disappointing overtime loss to Texas Wesleyan, 3-2. Before Sunday's match, the Bobcats will face Middle Georgia at home Friday at 5 p.m.
Fans looking to follow the match via live video and stats can do so using the links on the schedule page. For updates before, during and after the match, follow @NSUSharks on Twitter.
