FUS Barons Men's Soccer Tops GCC in 2OT, 2-1

STEUBENVILLE, OH. - Franciscan University of Steubenville's Zeph Swope provided late game heroics in the form of two goals to lift the men's soccer team to a 2-1 victory over Grove City College on Wednesday, September 10, bumping their record to 3-2-1 on the season.

In the first half, the Barons came out firing with six shot attempts and much offensive pressure, but were unable to capitalize. Senior sweeper James Cleaton from San Diego played spectacular defense, including saving two shots that had gotten past the goalkeeper.

Grove City struck first in the second half, with Jake Kern scoring at the 34:52 minute mark. In the last five minutes, the Barons started attacking the Wolverines' goal. Then Swope, a Columbus, OH native, received a pass from Thomas Allen with 1:42 left to tie the game. With 6:49 left in the second overtime, Matt Taylor served a nice pass to Swope, who gracefully headed the ball into the net to give the Barons the win.

The Barons also got solid play from goalkeeper William Herrmann, a native of Wintersville and an alumnus of Catholic Central High School, who had nine saves for FUS. Herrmann was named "Goalkeeper of the Week" by the Alleghany Mountain Collegiate Conference (AMCC) for the week of September 8.

First year Coach Soave complimented Taylor, whom coach claimed was "tough as nails" and Cleaton, who "continues to drive and direct the team forward. He is so crucial in keeping our defense together." Swope and Duran were also noted by the coach as playing good games. FUS will look to build off the momentum of this win as they prepare for their first game of AMCC play against Hilbert College on Saturday September 13 at 4 p.m. on the Franciscan University of Steubenville campus.