Santi Possu scored twice in the second half, including an 86th-minute equalizer, as FIU men’s soccer played Memphis to a 2-2 draw Friday night at Leyva Family Field at FIU Soccer Stadium in Miami. The result gave FIU its first American Conference point of the season. FIU moved to 3-3-2 overall and 0-1-1 in conference play.
Possu opened FIU’s scoring with a penalty kick in the 50th minute. Martin Piedeleu assisted on the equalizer in the 86th minute, which completed Possu’s first multi-goal game as a Panther. The performance extended Possu’s scoring streak to three consecutive matches and gave him six goals on the season.
FIU responds after halftime deficit
Memphis took a 2-0 lead before halftime after scoring twice late in the opening half. Ethan Cook scored in the 41st minute, and Keanan Bader converted a penalty kick in the 45th minute. FIU entered the break trailing by two goals.
Possu cut the deficit to 2-1 by converting from the penalty spot in the 50th minute. FIU generated 10 shots and nine corner kicks in the second half before Possu scored again late in the match. Piedeleu’s assist was his second of the season.
FIU finishes with shot advantage
FIU outshot Memphis 15-12 and placed six attempts on goal. Possu led FIU with four shots and three shots on goal, while Piedeleu added two shots. The draw marked FIU’s first conference point of the season.
Nigel Van Haveren played all 90 minutes in goal and recorded two saves. FIU’s record moved to 3-3-2 overall and 0-1-1 in the American Conference. Memphis scored both of its goals before halftime.
Next match for FIU men’s soccer
FIU is scheduled to play at FGCU on Tuesday, September 29, at 7 p.m. at Pickering Field. The match will be streamed live on ESPN+.
FSB Take
Possu’s two second-half goals turned a 2-0 halftime deficit into a 2-2 draw for FIU men’s soccer. His 86th-minute equalizer secured FIU’s first American Conference point of the season. FIU will next play at FGCU.
Source: Original report