MARYVILLE, Tenn. – Maryville men's soccer (0-1-0, 0-0-0) opened the 2025 season Friday evening at the MC Soccer Complex, dropping a 2-0 game to Lynchburg (1-0-0, 0-0-0). The Scots showed flashes of attack and a strong defensive effort, but they could not overcome a pair of Hornet goals in each half.
Lynchburg struck first, just eight minutes into the game. A quick combination through the midfield opened a shot, allowing Lynchburg to take the early lead. Maryville settled in defensively, with sophomore goalkeeper
Tanner Ricks organizing the back line and coming up with key saves.
Maryville almost leveled the playing field when sophomore
Hayden Smith broke free inside the box. Smith's shot was on target, but Lynchburg was able to react quickly for the save. Moments later,
Tucker Smith fired just wide on another opportunity, giving the Scots confidence heading into the break.
The second half brought more pressure from Lynchburg, which out-shot the Scots 12-0 over the final 45 minutes. The Hornets extended their lead in the 64
th minute after a Maryville foul in the box led to a penalty kick.
Maryville continued to battle defensively in the closing minutes.
Will Brush and
Will Gallaher were active in the back, challenging Lynchburg's forwards, and helping absorb 11 corner kicks. The match served as an early test for a young Maryville roster that featured contributions from underclassmen across the midfield and forward lines. Despite the relentless offense from the Hornets, Maryville's Ricks registered five saves for the match.
UP NEXT
Maryville will continue its opening weekend on Sunday, August 31, against Brevard. Kickoff is scheduled for 2:00 PM at the MC Soccer Complex.
