Lynn University Fighting Knights

BOCA RATON, Fla. – Boy, does the Lynn University men’s soccer team like heart-racing finishes.  Julian Halder scored with two and a half minutes remaining in the match to give the top-ranked Fighting Knights a 1-0 victory over No. 23 Rollins on Saturday.  This marks the third straight match LU, 6-0-0 overall and 2-0 in the Sunshine State Conference, has needed a goal in the waning moments to secure a win. 

The Blue & White defense had allowed just six shots on goal in the previous five matches as starting keeper Matt DiCerbo had not been tested thoroughly.  The senior out of Boca Raton, stepped up huge against the Tars, securing six saves, of which five came on diving plays.

It was Kerst Lehman who once again provided the heroics in a closely fought contest.  With time winding down in regulation and both teams preparing for overtime, the German winger found a way to put LU on the board.  He blew by his defender following a long punt by DiCerbo and set an easy pass to the top of the box.  Halder stepped forward and one-timed his shot past Keneil Baker and into the right side-netting.

The game could have easily gone the other way without DiCerbo in net.  Minutes into play, Rob Crowley laced a shot from the top of the box only to see DiCerbo make a punch save to his left.  In the 66th minute, Crowley nearly struck again, this time off a free kick.

Rollins’ midfielder lined up a shot that sailed over the wall to the upper left shelf.  DiCerbo made a diving slap save to keep the game scoreless.

Lynn had an 8-4 advantage in corner kicks but Rollins led 9-7 in total shots. 

Yannick Braeuer scored in the 82nd minute of a 1-0 victory against Anderson on September 8, while Lehman notched the game-winner with a minute left in overtime against Saint Leo on September 12.

The Fighting Knights have little time to rest as they return to the pitch on Wednesday, September 19, at 7 p.m. when they travel to Miami Shores, Fla., to battle longtime rival Barry University.  Fans can watch the game live at LynnFightingKnights.com.  Don’t forget to ‘Like’ us on Facebook and follow @LUKnights on Twitter and Instagram.