BECKLEY, West Virginia - The Salem men's soccer team had the opportunity to lead off their play against Mountain East Conference foes Sunday afternoon against the Concord Mountain Lions at their home field in Beckley, West Virginia. Salem opened play well, and the game remained deadlocked after the first half. However, a big Mountain Lion second half spoiled the trip for the Tigers, and they fell 3-0. 

As previously mentioned, Salem played well in the first half as the Tigers stayed neck and neck with Concord. Scoring chances were few and far between for both teams, and a defensive battle ensued. Neither team seemed to find an advantage in the first half, and the Tigers went into the break with a 0-0 deadlock. 

Unfortunately, some big second half adjustments from the Mountain Lions added a goal for Concord early in the half. Then, Concord secured a penalty kick shortly after that. From there, Salem made a valiant effort to claw their way back into the game, but to no avail. Concord added the final goal of the game in the waning minutes of the contest, and Salem fell 3-0.

Statistically, it is clear Salem had a few chances to find the back of the net. Aidan Mahoney added 3 of the 7 total shots for the Tigers. In goal, a combination effort from starter Ryan Schneider and Samuel Reyna-Farje yielded a total of 3 saves in the loss. 

While this is certainly not the way Salem wanted to open the season, perhaps the home field of The Bridge Sports Complex will help the Tigers in their next contest. Salem will make that home debut against the University of Charleston on Wednesday, September 6th at 1:30 PM.