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ASU Men’s Soccer Opens Season With 1-0 Victory

David Dodge’s goal in the 13th minute gave Appalachian State a 1-0 victory in Friday’s season-opener against East Tennessee State. Photo courtesy of Meghan Gay and Appalachian Sports Information

Aug. 27, 2012. Senior David Dodge’s goal in the 13th minute was all that was needed, as the Appalachian State University men’s soccer opened the season with a 1-0 victory over East Tennessee State Friday night at the Ted Mackorell Soccer Complex.

With the victory, App State earns its first win in the regular season opener since 2009.

The Mountaineers moved quickly in the first half when freshman midfielder Matthew Melton scooted down the right side of the field and fed Dodge in the middle of the box with a ground pass. Dodge struck the ball with his right foot to put the Apps ahead.

“David has shown up in every game he’s played,” head coach Matt Nelson said. “I give him credit, he stepped up, he needs to show up in the big games and he’s doing that. We couldn’t be happier.”

The Mountaineer defense shined all night, preventing ETSU from recording a shot on goal.

Appalachian out shot the Bucs 9-8 for the match, while the Apps tallied three shots on goal. Senior Josiah Trower and freshman Luke Adams troubled Buccaneers goalkeeper Ryan Coulter.

Trower paced the Mountaineers with four shots for the night while Adams also placed on shot on target.

Appalachian will be in back in action on Thursday, Aug. 30 when they travel to UNC Asheville. Kickoff is set for 4 p.m.