JACKSON, Tenn.- The Bulldogs shook off a tough opening month with a gritty win over Christian Brothers on Saturday at Signaigo Field, taking the finale of their non-conference schedule 2-1 before conference play opens next weekend.
Despite being outshot 14-4 and out-cornered 10-4, Union made the most of its chances. Decker Burns broke the deadlock in the 37th minute, burying his shot for the game's opening goal. Christian Brothers answered just before the half, with Christopher Armitage converting an assist from Elliot Whalley in the 44th minute to level it at 1-1 heading into the break.
The second half turned into a defensive battle, with goalkeeper Patrick Schott standing tall between the posts. Schott finished the match with nine saves, repeatedly turning away a Christian Brothers attack that generated shot after shot but couldn't find the back of the net a second time. Sophomore forward Solomon Pela came up big late, scoring the eventual game-winner in the 78th minute to put Union ahead for good, 2-1.
Union's backline weathered a heavy second-half push — Christian Brothers fired off eight shots after the break alone, but the defense held firm behind Schott's strong performance to close it out.
With the non-conference portion of the schedule now behind them at 1-3-0, Union turns its attention to conference play starting next weekend, hoping to carry this momentum forward.
To keep up with the squad, follow @UUAthleticsMS on Instagram and Twitter.
-UNION-
