The Lancaster Bible College Men's Soccer played their final regular season game of 2024 on Friday afternoon, losing to Penn St. Brandywine by a score of 2-1. The Chargers head into the postseason with a record of 4-9-3 overall and 2-4-2 in conference, while the Lions improve to 7-7-3 overall and 4-4 in conference.
 
How it Happened: The Chargers brought pressure early with five shots and two corner kicks in the first 20 minutes, but came up empty as the Lions' defense stood firm. Brandywine found their first score of the game in the 23rd minute off a corner kick, taking an early lead. The Chargers fired two more shots without a score, then the Lions netted another goal in the 43rd minute on a breakaway to take a 2-0 lead into halftime.
 
Lancaster Bible overcame two shots and two corners early in the second half behind a save from goalie Chris Jackson and some good defensive stops. The Chargers scored in the 57th minute behind a loose ball that was controlled by Uziel Ruiz, who netted his first career score to make it a one-goal game with over 30 minutes to go. The Chargers kept up the pressure with five shots and three corner kicks down the stretch, but the Lions held strong as they defeated LBC 2-1 after 90 minutes of play.

From the Coach: "Tough end to the regular season today," said Head Coach Tom Ardt. "We are focused on preparing for the opening round playoff game this coming Wednesday and we are thankful for the opportunity." 
 
By the Numbers:
- Despite the loss, the Chargers outshot Brandywine 13-4 and had more shots on goal (6-3), while the Lions led in corner kicks with five to the Chargers' four
- Uziel Ruiz had the lone goal for the Chargers in the 57th minute
- Chris Jackson made one save in goal
- The Lions' goals were scored by Ray Kelly and Dakari Burton
 
Information to Know:
This was the Chargers' second ever matchup with Penn St. Brandywine, with the series now tied 1-1 with LBC winning 4-0 back in September of 2007. Freshman Uziel Ruiz scored his first career goal for the Chargers in the second half.
 
Up Next:
The Chargers will await their final seeding as the rest of the conference slate is set for tomorrow afternoon, then they will travel on the road for a United East First Round playoff game on Wednesday, October 30 at a time to be determined.