DALLAS – The Dallas Christian College men's soccer team defeated Manhattan Christian College, 3-1, on Friday afternoon at home to pick up its first victory of the young season. DCC improved to 1-1 on the season, while Manhattan dropped to 1-2.
 
Standing out defensively was goalkeeper Luis Lopez, who in 90 minutes made 11 saves, including seven in the second half. The goalie was also big on communicating to a stout backline that helped protect the netting at times when Lopez had to make a big stop. Even on balls not entered as shots, Lopez raised to great heights to keep the Thunder's offense from getting high percentage shots.
 
Lopez credited the hustle and effort to Thursday's practice.
 
"Practice yesterday compared to the practices we have had the rest of the season was where we showed a lot more tempo and pace," Lopez stated. "We definitely showed it out today and we played fantastic."
 
DCC broke through with its first goal of the season right around the 25:00 minute mark on a goal by Brandon Flores. An initial shot was taken and saved by goalie Kord Pearson, but the ball rebounded and found Flores for an easy attempt into the back of the next toward the left side. Flores is usually a goalie, but was in the field due to the limited number of available players.
 
"I cannot describe the words right now the emotions," Flores reflected. "It has been a while since I have played in the field. All the emotions came at me. I cannot take all the credit. Lopez made a clutch save at the end that could have tied the game. Everyone [on the team] did their part."
 
DCC was outshot 11-6 at halftime but maintained a 1-0 advantage until later in the second half. In the 72^nd minute, Shane Anderson was able to sneak a shot through two defenders and catch the keeper out of position on the left side to make it 2-0.
 
Manhattan answered with a goal by Ethan Hill at the 74:39 minute mark on an assist from Jonathan Moon. The Thunder continued to threaten on tying the game, but DCC's defense remained strong and continued fighting on every possession. Anderson would provide another goal at the 84:24 mark to push the lead out of reach and the Crusaders were able to protect the two-goal lead for their first win under head coach Pablo Esquibel Jr.
 
The Thunder finished with 23 shots and 13 shots on goal. Despite the difference in the stats on paper and depth of players on the bench, the Crusaders did not waver in their effort.
 
"We are basically a family now," Lopez praised. "We have played for three weeks now…anything that comes our way we are going to take on."
 
Dallas Christian returns for its third straight home match on Friday, September 10 versus Barclay College. Kickoff is slated for 10 a.m.
 
"Dallas Christian educates and mentors students to be people of influence engaging in their calling to the work of Christ in the church and in the world."