#24 Campbell notched their sixth consecutive shutout and 11th straight win en route to a 2-0 victory over High Point tonight in a non-conference matchup at Vert Track and Soccer Stadium.
The Fighting Camels (13-5) capitalized on the only legitimate scoring chance for either team in the first half. The play started from their backline, after a couple of crisp passes, Josue Soto found Vince Petrasso who calmly placed his shot in the far right corner for a 1-0 CU advantage. The rest of the half played out with no scoring opportunities for either team.
It seemed as if the Panthers (8-7-3) were going to notch the equalizer early in the second half. Karo Okiomah had a breakaway with the Camels keeper who made a terrific save in denying the freshman standout. Minutes later, a give-and-go between Hilaire Babou and Ryan Puppolo finished with Puppolo's shot going just wide of the net. Campbell would limit High Point's scoring opportunities from that point on, as a header from Chris Shrum that went wide off a long service was the last threat HPU would mount the rest of the game.
Richard Jata sealed the deal for CU on his team leading eighth goal of the season. After a High Point foul set up a free kick for Jata, the senior knocked home a great ball into the upper-right corner bending away from goalie Michael Chesler on his dive attempt.
"The effort tonight simply was not good enough," said head coach Dustin Fonder. "We need to refocus and get re-energized for the final stretch of the season."
Campbell goalie Aaron Johnson picked up the win in net while making five saves. Adam Ross got the start playing the first 45 minutes and had two saves. Chesler played the second half, also picking up two saves. High Point held a slight edge in shots 14-11. It was also the first home match of the season the Panthers have dropped all year, posting a 6-1-2 record at Vert.
Prior to the game, five seniors were honored for their hard work and dedication to the soccer program as they played their final home match of their careers. The seniors were Dan Clark, Michael Earman, Adam Ross, Chris Shrum and Brandon Young.
"I want to thank the seniors for everything they have contributed to the soccer program at High Point University," said Fonder. "We wish them great success in their future endeavors."
High Point hits the road for their regular season finale on Saturday, November 8 when they take on Winthrop. It is the final day of regular season matches for all teams in the Big South and the final pairings for the Big South Tournament will be decided. Kickoff is scheduled for 2:00 p.m.
