CONWAY, Ark. — Central Arkansas men's soccer (3-1-1) extended its win streak to three games following a 3-0 victory over Central Baptist College on Monday night at Bill Stephens Track and Soccer Complex.
Central Arkansas came out with a different starting eleven than usual, but that didn't stop the Bears from setting the tone early. Central Arkansas controlled much of the possession in the opening minutes but had trouble getting the ball deep into the Mustangs' defensive third. The Bears continued to create opportunities through strong play in the midfield, leading to several chances in the attacking third.
Dalton Anderson looked to put the Bears on the board early, but his first shot attempt was blocked by a Central Baptist defender. Anderson followed with another attempt in the 20th minute, but the Mustangs goalkeeper got a leg on the shot to keep the match scoreless.
The Bears continued to apply pressure in search of the opening goal and found it in the 34th minute. The ball ricocheted off multiple Bears and Mustangs before falling to John Malik St. Phard, who fired it into the back of the net to give Central Arkansas the lead. The goal marked St. Phard's first of the season, sending the Bears into halftime with a 1-0 lead.
Central Arkansas looked to create separation early in the second half and doubled its lead just eight minutes after the break. Vaclav Kozeny found the back of the net to put the Bears up 2-0. Kozeny continued his strong night in the 61st minute, scoring his second goal of the match to extend the Central Arkansas lead to 3-0. Logan Smith was credited with the assist.
Central Baptist looked to answer, but the Bears' defense continued to limit the Mustangs' opportunities in the attacking third. Benjamin Aviles made several key saves throughout the match and recorded the clean sheet in his first start of the season.
Central Arkansas returns home Friday to take on Lipscomb in its first ASUN Conference matchup of the season. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Bill Stephens Track and Soccer Complex. The match will be streamed live on ESPN+, with live stats available online.
