PHILIPPI, W.Va. — Salem men's soccer secured a 2-1 victory over Virginia State on Saturday afternoon at Multi-Sport Performance Stadium, overcoming an early deficit with a pair of goals to earn the win.
Virginia State opened the scoring in the 19th minute when Isaiah Sims found the back of the net to give the Trojans a 1-0 advantage.
Salem continued to generate scoring opportunities throughout the first half, outshooting Virginia State 15-4. The Tigers broke through late in the opening period when Junior Lormera scored his fifth goal of the season in the 41st minute. Isaac Ramirez and Daniel Towell assisted on the equalizer, sending the teams into halftime tied at 1-1.
The Tigers wasted little time taking the lead after the break. Just 1:22 into the second half, Josue Villegas scored his fourth goal of the season off an assist from Abdul Kabbany to put Salem ahead 2-1.
Salem maintained its advantage over the final 43 minutes, limiting Virginia State to three second-half shots. The Tigers finished with a commanding 23-7 edge in total shots, including a 12-5 advantage in shots on goal.
Goalkeeper Gregory Lynch recorded four saves for Salem, helping preserve the one-goal victory. The Tigers also held a 7-3 advantage in corner kicks.
With the win, Salem improves to 5-10-2 overall on the season.
