CANTON, Ohio — Salem University opened the 2026 men's soccer season in impressive fashion Thursday evening, defeating Malone University, 4-1, at Pioneer Park.
The Tigers (1-0) jumped on the Pioneers early, scoring three times in the opening 45 minutes before adding another goal just 11 seconds into the second half.
Salem's offense was led by Copper West, Dylan Vaughn, Josue Villegas and David Ramirez each found the back of the net.
The Tigers wasted little time getting on the scoreboard. In the ninth minute, West set up Vaughn for the opening goal, giving Salem a 1-0 advantage.
Just over eight minutes later, Salem doubled its lead. Carlos Gonzalez and Arokya Shrestha assisted on Villegas' goal in the 19th minute, pushing the Tigers ahead 2-0.
Malone cut into the deficit in the 38th minute on a team goal, but Salem quickly answered. In the 42nd minute, Ramirez finished a chance assisted by Abdul Kabbany and Villegas to restore the Tigers' two-goal advantage heading into halftime.
Salem continued its momentum immediately after the break. Just 11 seconds into the second half, the Tigers punched in another goal, with Ethan Hinds and Jesse Hospedales providing the assists. The goal gave the Tigers a commanding 4-1 lead.
From there, Salem's defense and goalkeeper Gregory Lynch kept Malone off the scoreboard. Lynch played all 90 minutes and made three saves as the Tigers secured the season-opening victory.
Salem controlled much of the offensive action throughout the contest, finishing with a 16-9 advantage in shots and putting nine attempts on frame. The Tigers also held a 3-1 edge in corner kicks.
West paced the Tigers with four shots, including two on goal, while Villegas added two shots and two points on a goal and an assist. Vaughn and Ramirez each contributed a goal, while Gonzalez, Shrestha, Hinds, Hospedales and Kabbany each recorded an assist.
The victory gives Salem a 1-0 record to begin the 2026 campaign.
Up Next: Salem returns to action on Tuesday, September 1, traveling to Buckhannon, West Virginia, to face West Virginia Wesleyan. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.
