The ETSU Mens Soccer team would take on the Furman Paladins in the Southern Conference Championship game this past Saturday. What was an initial surprise appearance for the Bucs, would end in a 2-0 hard-fought loss. Entering Championship weekend, the Buccaneers were 5-7-4 on the season, rebuilding from last season’s success, while new first-year head coach, Allen Vital led the team. Before facing the Paladins, the prior game would see the Buccaneers end in a tie in regulation at one goal apiece against the Wofford Terriers in the SoCon Conference Tournament. Despite the tie game, the Bucs were able to win and advance from a 5-3 outscoring the Terriers on penalty kicks.
Early in the matchup against the Paladins, the Bucs defense would break, giving up an early goal to trail 1-0. The Buccaneers would fight on, taking four shots in the next seven minutes of play, following the Paladin’s goal. Trying to hold onto an impressive 12-game home winning streak, the Bucs would compete for an additional half, only to see yet another late goal from Furman, eventually ending the game in a 2-0 loss. The overall match would see the Buccaneers make some critical mistakes, being outshot on goal, 15-9. Even while three of the kicks would be near net for the Bucs. ETSU was able to win the penalty battle, 17-12.
Despite the season ending setback, the Buccaneers out-preformed expectations. The Bucs were ultimately able to secure five wins on the regular season, splitting the SoCon Conference regular season championship. Even in a major loss, the Bucs will continue to grow, recruit, and compete well into the offseason. This will prepare the Bucs for a successful 2025 season campaign.
For more information on ETSU Men’s Soccer team, visit ETSUBucs.com
