Conquistadors’ offense explodes for 5-0 win over Barons.
Conquistadors’ offense explodes for 5-0 win over Barons. (Sept. 9, 2023)

(Box Score

MOUNT VERNON, Ga. ( Sept. 9, 2023) – Florida National University’s men’s soccer team put on a masterclass during its 5-0 win over the Brewton-Parker College Barons. The NAIA’s No. 19 ranked Conquistadors (5-1-0) used an explosive second half to ring in its fifth win over six games and its second-largest victory over the Barons (1-3-0) since 2021. 

In the first half, FNU had nine shots but no goals to show for a spectacular offensive showcase that forced Barons’ goalkeeper Jake McCarthy to record three saves in the first 45 minutes of play. Despite getting the ball moving on offense, Conquistadors Tomas Barrancos and Manuel Rodriguez picked up yellow cards before both teams regrouped for the second half. 

It was just 10 minutes into the second period when veteran forward Francisco Crimi finally broke through for the Conquistadors on an assist from Christian Omar Hernandez. Two minutes later, Pedro Navarro made it a 2-0 game with a goal of his own courtesy of Vinicius Mallmann and Juan Pugin. 

Despite this hefty lead, FNU was not satisfied, as Blas Barrancos netted a stellar unassisted goal just past the 70th minute. Shortly after this score, Matias Leaniz headed in a circus shot on a cross-field lob from Facundo Jose Terra. The final score of the game came with just 11 minutes left on the clock. Jose Terra recorded his second assist on a goal from Geronimo Luna Grebe.

FNU ended the night with 27 shots with 14 of those on goal. The Conquistadors recorded all 12 of the corners awarded in the contest. 

Up Next: FNU’s road trip wraps up in West Point, Ga., versus Point University. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. Sept. 11.