SPARTANBURG, S.C. – Striking first in the team's season opener wasn't enough for the Converse University men's soccer team (0-1) as they fell 4-1 to the Anderson University Trojans (1-0) Thursday night at Weisiger Stadium.

The Trojans outshot the Valkyries 9-4 in the first half and 10-3 in the second half, a complete-game advantage of 19-7. They held the advantage in shots on goal by a margin of 8-2.

The Valkyries first goal of the season came from the head of senior defender Martin Burgos, who was playing up following a corner kick in the 26th minute. He found the back of the net for his first goal in purple and gold.

The lead lasted just two-and-a-half minutes as Anderson equalized the game with their own first goal of the season. The teams went into halftime tied 1-1.

The Trojans came out hot in the second half, scoring just two-and-a-half minutes into the second period. They added on again in the 78th and 80th minutes while playing man-up due to a Valkyrie red card in the 58th minute.

Graduate student defender Owen Collins returned to the pitch for the first time since Nov. 12, 2023 after being sidelined last season with an injury. He logged 15 minutes against Anderson.

Freshman goalkeeper Paul Legai recorded four saves in his first action for the Valkyries.

The Valkyries look to bounce back in a neutral site contest against Georgia Southwestern State University on Sunday, Sept. 7. The game will be played at Georgia Gwinnett College in Lawrenceville, Georgia. Kick-off is set for 7 P.M.

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