WINGATE, N.C. — The 22nd-ranked Francis Marion men’s soccer team tallied a goal in each half en route to a 2-0 blanking of Wingate on Thursday in theseason opener for both teams.
The FMU win was the first victory in a season-opener since 2005, and the it avenged the Patriots’ last regular season loss of 2008, a 3-2 decision to the Bulldogs in the rain in Florence. Francis Marion finished the 2008 regular season unbeaten in its final 11 matches.
FMU will host St. Andrews on Saturday at 2 p.m.
FMU junior goalkeeper Clark Richeson registered nine saves as Wingate outshot the Patriots 17-7. Wingate also held a 9-2 advantage in corner kicks.
Francis Marion sophomore midfielder Adrian Sikorski gave Richeson and the Patriot defense the only goal they would need in the 20th minute. His shot found the opposite corner from 18 yards.
In the 53rd minute, Francis Marion senior midfielder/forward Kyle Clinton completed the scoring by converting a penalty kick. The PK was the first one allowed by Wingate in two seasons.
Wingate junior goalkeeper Joey Calandra took the loss for the host Bulldogs. He had one save.
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