NEED TO KNOW:
Score: William Peace 4, Piedmont 1
Records: Piedmont, 0-1; William Peace, 1-0

CARY, N.C. - Piedmont men's soccer was unable to contain a tough William Peace team on Friday afternoon, falling 4-1 in the season opener at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, North Carolina.

The Lions surrendered a Pacers goal in the 15th minute of the contest and allowed three more in the second half before adding one late to avoid the shutout.

Returning scoring leader Davis Knight provided the offense for Piedmont, scoring his first goal of the season and the team's first goal, coming in the 87th minute.

As the Pacers controlled possession and won the shot count, Piedmont goalkeepers Bobby Wood and Collin Sheeler were busy all afternoon, combining for seven saves in the loss.

Up next, the Lions will return home next weekend, hosting Warren Wilson in the home opener next Saturday, Sept. 6 at 1 p.m.

TURNING POINT:
- Trailing 1-0 for over 40 minutes of game action, the Lions surrendered three second half goals to remove any chance of a comeback.

STANDOUT PERFORMANCES:
- After winning CCS Rookie of the Year in 2023 and leading the team in goals last season, Davis Knight started off his junior campaign in style, scoring late to put the Lions on the board.

HOW TO FOLLOW:
- To stay up to date on all information regarding Piedmont University Athletics, be sure to visit PiedmontLions.com and connect with the Green and Gold on social media. Follow the Lions on X @PiedmontLions, Instagram: @PiedmontLions, and Facebook.