AMERICUS, Ga. – In a tough matchup against NCAA Division II Georgia Southwestern University, the Fighting Tigers fell 4-0 at Hurricane Field in Americus, Ga.
In front of a crowd of more than 1,000 fans, the Fighting Tigers began the season on the road in a hostile environment as they competed against the Hurricanes as part of their ninth annual "Under the Lights" event.
The Fighting Tigers got off to a strong start defensively, holding the Hurricanes scoreless through almost 30 minutes of play. However, at the 29" mark, Sean Carlos Rivera opened the scoring with his first goal of the season off an assist from Mane Birovljev. The Fighting Tigers didn't let that deter them as they held the Hurricanes scoreless through the rest of the half, led by a strong defensive effort from captain Dumisani Ziyaya Chatata and GK Teagan Paulo.
Despite their strong play in the first half, GSW eventually found its rhythm and scored three unanswered goals to build a 4-0 lead. Jesus Duque added the Hurricanes' second goal before Theo Hoang scored back-to-back goals, both assisted by Kimoni Mills.
The Fighting Tigers played a strong defensive game with 15 total saves and just six fouls compared to 11 from GSW. All 15 saves were recorded by GK Paulo. Unfortunately, the story of the game was Andrew's stifling defense coupled with a lack of offensive output. The Fighting Tigers recorded just three shots throughout the game and were held to one in the second half. Of their three shots, only midfielder Manuel Lopez produced a shot on goal.
The Fighting Tigers return to action Saturday, Aug. 29, for their first home game of the season. The matchup will also mark the first home contest for Andrew College Athletics as a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and the Southern States Athletic Conference (SSAC).
Located in Cuthbert, Georgia, Andrew College is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics. The Fighting Tigers sponsor 16 sports and compete in the Southern States Athletic Conference.
