Opening Night at Elon
The VMI Keydets opened their 2026 campaign on Saturday with a 3-0 defeat at Elon University, a result that left the team searching for answers early in the season.
Elon's Martin Kozak broke the deadlock in the 19th minute, finishing a move set up by Jahmir Flowers, who later provided the assist for Dominik Renz's second goal in the 64th minute after VMI goalkeeper Santiago Rocha conceded.
The Phoenix sealed the victory when Flowers struck in the 83rd minute, capping a performance that included 26 shot attempts by Elon, with Kozak and Flowers each testing the Keydets' defense five times.
Drew Hartman made two saves to secure the win, while Rocha finished with six stops but took the loss despite a strong defensive effort.
VMI forward Jaden Moore led the Keydets with four shots on the night, and the team will look to rebound when they host Regent University on Saturday at 1 p.m. in their next home fixture.