COLUMBIA, S.C.— A pair of second-half tallies helped Columbia International University secure a 2-1 victory over the Montreat College men's soccer team Wednesday evening at Sessions Field in South Carolina's capital city. With the result, the Cavaliers fell to 0-7-1 overall and 0-3-1 in Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) action, while the Rams improved to 2-2-1 overall and 1-1-1 in conference play.
 
The initial half saw Montreat take an early advantage with Emmanuel Ntimeh scoring his first career goal in the 12th minute to put the visitors ahead 1-0. Predrag Grbovic also picked up his first assist of the season on the set-piece strike. Despite several offensive efforts from CIU, goalkeeper Frankie Zavala made a crucial save in the 41st minute to maintain the Cavaliers' lead. The frame ended with the Cavs holding a narrow 1-0 edge, navigating through a physical half with multiple fouls on both sides.
 
At the break, Columbia International owned the upper hand in shots (8-3) and corner kicks (1-0), but Montreat held the advantage in shots on goal (2-1).
 
The second period began with the visitors attempting to solidify their position, but it was CIU who struck first with a goal in the 54th minute. The Rams later grabbed the lead in the 63rd minute with another tally. Montreat's offense was active with attempts from Andres Saborio and Ntimeh, but shots narrowly missed, including one from Alejandro Hernandez that hit the post in the 79th minute. Despite their efforts, the Cavaliers were unable to find the late equalizer, concluding the match with a 2-1 deficit.

"Tonight was a much improved performance," said head coach Michael Bruce. "We competed well for much of the game. It was unfortunate that we made a couple of simple errors that were punished. Hopefully we can build on this and move forward."
 
CIU wrapped up the contest with seven more shot attempts than the Cavaliers (18-11) and three more corner kicks taken (7-4). The Rams also placed one more attempt on frame (3-2).
 
Ntimeh scored one goal and recorded four shots, with two on target, highlighting his offensive contribution for the Cavs. Grbovic added an assist, providing a key play in the team's attack. Defensively, Zavala managed one save over 90 minutes of action.
 
The next challenge for Montreat comes as it hosts Bob Jones University in a nonconference showdown at Pulliam Stadium. The matchup is set for Saturday, Sept. 20, with kickoff at 3 p.m. in Black Mountain, N.C.