Rocky Mount, NC. — The North Carolina Wesleyan men's soccer team gave the Homecoming Weekend crowd plenty to celebrate on Saturday, rallying from an early deficit to defeat Southern Virginia University, 2-1, at Scalf Field.
Southern Virginia struck first at the 12:53 mark when Zach Bartholomew found the back of the net, but the Battling Bishops responded quickly. Just over six minutes later, Santiago Calvo Lovera scored at 19:12 to bring NC Wesleyan even at 1-1.
NC Wesleyan continued to build momentum and took the lead in the 32nd minute. Jesper Fornebo set up Gareth Siemers, who finished the opportunity at the 31:19 mark to put the Bishops in front, 2-1. Wesleyan carried that advantage into halftime after generating seven first-half shots.
The Bishops remained aggressive after the break, earning four second-half corner kicks and creating additional chances through Khadim Sylla and Jordi Rodriguez. Rodriguez put an attempt on goal in the 78th minute, forcing a save from Southern Virginia goalkeeper Isaac Northcutt.
NC Wesleyan's defense protected the one-goal advantage throughout the second half. Southern Virginia threatened late, but goalkeeper Elliot Helander came up with a save in the final seconds to help secure the victory.
Calvo Lovera and Siemers each scored for the Bishops, while Fornebo recorded the assist on the game-winning goal. NC Wesleyan finished with nine shots, five on goal, and held a 5-1 advantage in corner kicks.
The 2-1 victory capped a strong Homecoming Weekend showing at Scalf Field and kept the Battling Bishops unbeaten in USA South play.
