MIDDLETOWN, Pa. - Penn State Harrisburg's men's soccer team began its quest of defending its back-to-back United East Championships with a 3-1 victory over Penn State Abington in the team's conference opener on Saturday afternoon, Sept. 17.

Reigning United East Offensive Player of the Week Daniel Fombu recorded three points behind a goal and an assist, Luke Myers netted the game winner, and Marc Rodgers converted his second penalty kick in as many outings.

Rodgers put the Lions (3-2-2, 1-0 United East) ahead early when he buried a PK in the 11th minute following a Penn State Abington foul in the box. Less than four minutes later, Myers doubled the advantage when he finished off a find from Fombu with a beautiful left-footed attempt that ricocheted off the cross bar and into the back of the net. 

The visiting Lions (2-3-1, 0-1 United East) cut the deficit in half with a marker in the 20th minute before defense and solid goalkeeping took over for the ensuing 65 minutes. Finally, with the closing minutes ticking away, Fombu played give-and-go soccer with Ethan Cortes, raced past numerous Penn State Abington defenders and skirted an attempt across the goal line to put things out of reach in the 85th minute.

NOTABLES

- The Lions have won 13 straight games against United East opponents dating back to 2019.

- Fombu increased his team-leading goals (4) and points (10) totals in the win.

- Rodgers' PK was his third marker of the year.

- Myers' goal was his second of the young season.

- Richard Lockard made three saves in goal to preserve the victory.

- Penn State Harrisburg finished with an 8-2 edge in corner kicks.

WHO'S NEXT?

United East play continues for the Lions when they travel to Penn College on Wednesday night. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m.

STAY CONNECTED

Fans can keep up with Penn State Harrisburg Athletics all season long on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Youtube using the handle @pshbgathletics.