Virginia University opened its season with a 0-2 record after a tightly contested defeat to High Point University, losing 3-2 in a match that swung back and forth until the final whistle.
High Point struck first when Daniel Lugo found the net in the 12th minute, giving the visitors an early lead that set the tone for a competitive encounter.
Virginia answered back in the 36th minute as Arnold Matshazi equalized, leveling the score at 1-1 and shifting momentum in the Cavaliers’ favor.
Just before the break, Nick Sarantakos restored the lead for Virginia, putting the home side ahead as the teams headed into halftime.
Second-Half Turnaround
The second half began with Sami Oulouheu striking for Virginia in the 49th minute, tying the game at 2-2 and reigniting hopes of a comeback.
However, the Cavaliers’ fortunes changed when Isaac Mwakutuya was shown a second yellow card, reducing the team to ten players and exposing them to pressure in the closing stages.
High Point capitalized on the numerical advantage, with Aidan Morrison scoring the decisive goal in the 89th minute to seal a 3-2 victory.
Coach’s Reflection
Virginia coach George Gelnovatch praised his side’s resilience after the break but lamented uncharacteristic mistakes, including the red card that altered the balance of the game.
Despite outshot High Point 12-3 in the second half, the Cavaliers failed to convert their chances, a fact that Gelnovatch acknowledged as a missed opportunity.