GREENWOOD, S.C. – September 17, 2011 – Opening against arguably its biggest rival in Peach Belt Conference play, the Clayton State Laker men’s soccer team had its opportunities on Saturday in its Peach Belt opener. However, the Lakers could not cash in on the chances in a 1-0 defeat at Lander.

The defeat drops Clayton State, ranked seventh in the nation in Division II, to 4-2 overall and 0-1 in the Peach Belt Conference. Lander, meanwhile, improves to 3-1 overall and 1-0 in PBC play.

Clayton State was on the attack with 12 shots. But Lander had strong play from its goalkeeper Scott Playle, who recorded seven saves in recording the shutout. Six of the saves came in the first half.

Lander had only five shots, but capitalized on its opportunity early in the first half. In the 14^th minute, the Bearcats got a goal by Chris Hobbs off an assist by Fred Parker, which proved to be the only scoring in the game. The game was physical with a combined 26 fouls and five yellow cards.

Clayton State goalkeeper Brian Garcia recorded two saves in defeat.

Clayton State travels to Young Harris on Wednesday at 5 p.m. for a non-conference showdown against the Mountain Lions. 

—CSU—