GREENWOOD – A hearty defensive effort and an early goal was precisely what was needed for the Lander men's soccer team to secure a 1-0 home win over Peach Belt rival Georgia Southwestern on Saturday night at Van Taylor Stadium.

With the win, Lander pushed its record to 2-5-3 overall and 2-3 in PBC play while avenging a Sept. 28 road loss to the Hurricanes (4-5-2, 2-5 PBC).

Keanu Ridgill earned the clean sheet in net in his first start of the 2024 campaign with a pair of saves – both coming over the final 15 minutes – for his second career win. Zach Meyer netted the lone goal of the game only 8:18 into the opening half, burying a rebound following a Bearcat corner kick.

The Bearcats had three shots on net the remainder of the game, but thanks to their own stifling defense that allowed just three shots on goal all night, they were able to close out the victory in front of the Blue and Gold faithful.

Also of note: freshman Sam Crolla made his first career start in his second appearance and played 77 minutes.

Lander stays at home for midweek conference action against USC Aiken this upcoming Wednesday night (Oct. 23) in a 7:30 kickoff.