Jacksonville, Fla. - The Central Arkansas Men's Soccer Team defeated Jacksonville 2-0 in an ASUN Conference matchup that could have seen the Bears clinch a spot in the ASUN Championships. That honor will have to wait a week after other results did not fall their way. Central Arkansas still hold top of the league with just two matches remaining, but need to hold their ground to clinch a top spot.

FIRST HALF - LATE GOAL AND SOLID DEFENSE

It was a fairly slow start to the match for the Bears, having allowed the first four shots on goal of the match, but Zach Schawl kept all of those chances out. Schawl, who has missed the last two matches for the Bears, made seven saves to keep a clean sheet. 

Central Arkansas would not get a true chance on frame until the 38th minute when Karim Diao fired a low driven shot toward goal, just getting saved by the Dolphins goalkeeper. The tie wouldn't be broken until the final minute of the half when Pablo Azcona scored after a quick counter-attack by the Bears led to Sohma Ichikawa playing a low ball into the feet of Azcona to tuck away to finish.

SECOND HALF - PROGRESSIVE PLAY AND TIDY FINISHING

The Bears attempted to keep Jacksonville out by tight pressing and quick passing. It worked as the Dolphin defense was opened up in the 74th minute for Daniel Shabani to open his scoring account after a wonderful solo strike doubled Central Arkansas' advantage.

Both Alex Kiss and Alberto Suarez had close chances to add to the lead late, but were unable to find the back of the net.

HOW THE MATCH SHAPES THE TABLE

Central Arkansas holds top of the league after the result with 12 points, while Stetson sits on nine points in second place. A win in the Bears next match on Saturday, October 23, could clinch a berth in the ASUN Championships. The loss for Jacksonville places them at the bottom of the table, but tied on points with four other teams with six points.

The Bears host Liberty on Saturday, October 23, for Senior Day. Kickoff is set for 6 P.M. CT at the Bill Stephens Complex.