SALEM, W.Va. (Oct. 17) – A first half goal by freshman James Cockshott (Godmanchester, England/Hinchingbrooke) proved to be enough as the Tigers defeated Davis & Elkins 1-0 Saturday afternoon at Catalano Stadium.
 
The win improves the Salem International University men's soccer team to 8-5-1 overall, 6-4 in Great Midwest Athletic Conference (G-MAC) play. The Tigers have already clinched a berth in the upcoming G-MAC Tournament, with matches against Ohio Valley and Cedarville remaining, both of whom are ahead of Salem International in the league standings. Meanwhile, the Senators fall to 1-6-2 in the G-MAC, 3-8-2 overall.
 
Salem International took the lead in the eighth minute of the match. Sophomore Alejandro De la Macorra (Mexico City, Mexico/Colegio Vista Hermosa) sent a free kick from the right sideline into the box and Cockshott headed the ball into the back of the net to give the Tigers a 1-0 lead.
 
The goal was enough for sophomore goalkeeper Dom Gillespie (Whitley Bay, England/Whitley Bay), who earned his first-career shutout victory. Gillespie wasn't tested often, but made a crucial save in the 83rd minute. Davis & Elkins's Lukas Grosse-Puppendahl attempted a header deep in the box that was turned away by Gillespie and the rebound was shot over the crossbar to preserve the lead.
 
Salem International held a nine-to-seven shot advantage, while the Senators held a five-to-two edge in corner kick attempts.
 
Gillespie made two saves to earn the victory in net, while senior Javier Ruiz (Mexico City, Mexico/Universidad del Valle de Mexico) led the Tigers with three shots on goal.
 
The Tigers are back on the pitch Thursday, Oct. 22 when they take on league-leading Cedarville for a tilt at 7 p.m.