South Raleigh News

NC State men's soccer kicked off its new era under head coach Marc Hubbard with a 3-2 win over High Point in the season opener. The match, held at Dail Soccer Field, attracted a crowd of 2,584 spectators.

In the 19th meeting between the Wolfpack and the Panthers, tensions were high as both teams sought to start their seasons with a victory. Newcomer Taig Healy had several close shots from the top of the box to put NC State in scoring position.

High Point took an early lead in the 30th minute when Brendan Krueger scored off a goalie deflection inside the box. The pace of the game increased and became more physical after NC State went down 0-1.

In the 41st minute, Liam Bennett set up for a free kick sent to Santiago Hoyos. Hoyos contested for the ball towards the goal but it was saved by the goalie. Will Buete finished off the deflection to score NC State's first goal of the season, tying the game at 1-1 by halftime.

High Point's assistant coach received a yellow card immediately after this goal.

The second half saw continued split possession time but increased physicality and speed. Six additional yellow cards were awarded across both teams and their staffs during this period.

High Point regained their lead shortly into the second half when Jefferson Amaya sent in a short corner free kick that Frankie De Francesco converted, making it 2-1.

In the 66th minute, Taig Healy capitalized on one of his six total shots of the night. Drew Lovelace managed to poke out a ball to Healy who scored, leveling the game at 2-2.

As both sides scrambled for scoring opportunities, it appeared headed for a draw until senior captain Vusumzi Plamana netted his first career goal in the final two minutes. Isaac Heffess’s throw-in led to a contested header that Plamana struck with his right foot from inside the top of the box, securing NC State’s victory.

NC State will remain at home for another game against Florida Gulf Coast on Sunday, August 25th at 4 p.m.