Box Score On a warm August afternoon, the IU Columbus men's soccer team kicked off their 2024 season with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over visiting Pikeville (KY).
 
The game started with an early setback for IU Columbus when Pikeville's Jakub Rus found the back of the net in the 12th minute, silencing the home crowd. However, the IU Columbus players refused to let this early goal dampen their spirits. They continued to press forward, creating several scoring opportunities.
 
Their persistence paid off just before halftime when Jon Michael Bright equalized with an unassisted goal in the 40th minute. The teams headed into the break level at 1-1, but there was a sense that IU Columbus had seized the momentum.
 
The second half saw IU Columbus come out firing on all cylinders. Angel Roque put the home team ahead in the 48th minute with a well-placed shot, assisted by Christian Cardoso.
 
Just six minutes later, Cardoso turned from provider to scorer, netting IU Columbus' third goal off an assist from Alejandro Alvarez. This quick double strike seemed to take the wind out of Pikeville's sails, and IU Columbus controlled much of the play for the remainder of the match.
 
The game wasn't without its tense moments, however. Both teams played with intensity, resulting in several yellow cards being issued throughout the match. IU Columbus' Cyuzuzo Ndayambaje received a red card in the 66th minute, forcing the home team to finish the game with ten men. Despite this setback, their defense held strong, with goalkeeper Jacob Kasarda making crucial saves to preserve the lead.
 
In the end, IU Columbus' offensive prowess proved too much for Pikeville. The home team out shot their opponents 14-12, with both teams putting 8 shots on target. Kasarda's 6 saves were crucial in securing the victory.

With this win, IU Columbus starts their season with a 1-0-0 record.  The victory provides a strong foundation for IU Columbus as they look ahead to their upcoming matches, demonstrating that they have the skill and determination to overcome adversity and emerge victorious.