BELMONT, N.C.— The Belmont Abbey men's soccer team got off to a strong start to its 2022 season with a 3-2 victory against Limestone Thursday at Alumni Field. It is the third time in the last four meetings that the Crusaders have prevailed over the Saints, dating back to the 2019 season when the two sides competed in Conference Carolinas.

In addition, head coach John Keating matched Stuart Brown with his 69th career win at the helm of The Abbey program.

HOW IT HAPPENED

• Belmont Abbey took just two shots in the first half but were able to make the most of them.
• The Crusaders took a 1-0 lead less than six minutes into the match thanks to a Connor Jeanes header off a corner kick from Dorian Samo.
• The second goal of the first half came on a strike from Davis McBee from just outside the box to double The Abbey's advantage.
• Limestone halved the deficit with its first goal in the 38th minute.
• The Crusaders added its third goal thanks to a breakaway goal from Zion Duncan with just over 12 minutes left in the match.
• The Saints added a goal in the final two minutes but the Crusaders were able to hold on defensively to seal the win.
• Will Whitman finished with five saves in his first career start for Belmont Abbey.
• Limestone outshot Belmont Abbey 15-6.

UP NEXT

• Belmont Abbey hosts North Carolina Wesleyan at 3 p.m. Saturday back at Alumni Field.