MEDIA, Pa. - Penn State Harrisburg's men's soccer team overcame an early deficit to secure a 2-1 victory over Penn State Brandywine in a conference contest on Saturday afternoon, October 18.


Cole Isaacs scored his first goal of the season in the 68th minute before Addis Tafese found the back of the net thanks to an assist by Andres Cantillo just minutes later. Penn State Harrisburg goalkeeper Erik Rodriguez played all 90 minutes and recorded a pair of saves.


The visiting Lions (6-6-2, 4-0-1 United East) applied pressure early on, as Kristian James attempted the first shot of the game in just the opening minute. Despite several attempts, including a shot by Cantillo that hit the right woodwork, the squad was unable to convert these opportunities in the first half.


Penn State Brandywine (2-11-1, 1-4-1 United East) struck first in the 29th minute when David Kayihura scored, assisted by Jackson Gamber, putting the home team ahead 1-0. The visitors continued to create opportunities with shots on goal but were unable to equalize before the period concluded.


Rodriguez made a key save four minutes into the second half, keeping the defensive line intact. The momentum shifted decisively in the 68th minute when Cole Isaacs scored to level the match, invigorating the team's offensive strategy. Two minutes later, Cantillo assisted Addis Tafese for the game-winner to give Penn State Harrisburg the advantage, capitalizing on the regained momentum. Despite multiple attempts from both sides, the visiting Lions maintained their advantage 2-1 to end the match.


NOTABLES
- Isaacs scored his first goal of the season against Penn State Brandywine. 
- Tafese netted the game-winner, which marks his sixth goal of the season. 
- Cantillo had the lone assist of the contest for the visiting Lions. 
- James, Isaacs, Cantillo, and Malachi Abma all attempted three shots on the afternoon. 
- Diego Menendez, Aidan McWilliams, Dillon Gough, and Liam Gohn all had two shots apiece.
- In goal for Penn State Harrisburg, Rodriguez tallied a pair of saves. 
- The visitors outshot Penn State Brandywine 30-5 and corner kicks 7-3.


WHO'S NEXT?
Penn State Harrisburg hosts Valley Forge on Monday evening, October 20 for another conference matchup at 7 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.