LAKELAND, Fla. -- Despite a spirited effort and a first-half equalizer, the SEU Men's Soccer team came up short in a 2-1 loss to Florida National on Saturday evening at SEU Soccer Field.
Florida National struck first just six minutes into the match when Diego Lozano converted off a pair of quick passes to put the Conquistadors up 1-0. Southeastern responded with poise, settling into its attack and generating chances through sustained possession. In the 38th minute,
Fabio De Paula provided the spark, finishing a well-executed sequence off assists from
Pietro Bronzin and
Sebastian Riebartsch to level the score at 1-1 — his third goal of the season.
The Fire carried that momentum into halftime but faced increasing pressure after the break. Florida National reclaimed the lead in the 52nd minute when David Luque slotted home what proved to be the match-winner. Southeastern fought to create quality opportunities down the stretch, highlighted by De Paula's late strike that missed just wide, but a red card in the 81st minute left the Fire playing a man down for the closing stretch.
Noah Murray-Hawkins anchored the defensive effort, recording five saves to keep SEU within striking distance. Offensively, the Fire managed five total shots, with three on frame, compared to 12 attempts by Florida National.
With the setback, Southeastern moves to 2-2-1 on the season and will look to bounce back quickly. The Fire return to action on Thursday, September 11, hitting the road to face Florida College in Temple Terrace, Fla. Kickoff is set for 4 p.m.
Â
Your team. Your news. Your Fire.
Get the inside scoop on SEU Athletics with game previews, recaps, highlights, and more — all delivered right to your inbox. Stay connected and never miss a moment!
Join the Newsletter
