Loyola Defense Shines Bright In A Close Match against St. Francis 

Both Loyola and St. Francis entered this match with a formidable 3-0 league record. The fans were excited to witness the possible birth of a season-long rivalry between two great teams. Loyola came onto the field with an attacking mindset with senior Jake Rodgers very close to an early goal in the 12th minute. St. Francis also had a very near goal not too long after coming off a beautiful volley shot that just barely missed. Jake had another close shot attempt close to the half following a great run and cross from Senior Malcolm Hawkins. Unfortunately, at just about halftime senior Peter Hyan went down after a bad landing from attempting to win the ball. After an on field examination he was escorted off the field with a noticeable limp. St. Francis came out with a menacing attack immediately after halftime. Junior Cabral Carter made a spectacular diving save to prevent a sure goal. In the 70th minute St. Francis was awarded a free kick in an extremely dangerous area, but Cabral Carter made another amazing diving save to prevent a goal. Malcolm Hawkins along with a St Francis player was given a yellow card after a small altercation on the sideline in the 75th minute. With 10 seconds left in the game senior center back David Merille scored a well placed header off a corner kick from Nate Smith-Hastie, causing the field to explode in celebration. Score: 1-0 Loyola. St. Francis had several well placed centers in added time but keeper Cabral Carter shone bright in those final moments with multiple consecutive saves that were by no means easy. Loyola came out here with a 1-0 win in the most exciting game of the season so far.

Dominic Elrington ’21