GREENSBORO, N.C. — Carolina University Men's Soccer opened the 2026 season in winning fashion Saturday evening, earning a 1-0 victory over Ave Maria University at Bryan Park Field No. 3.
The Bruins (1-0) used a first-half goal from Djordy Lefevere and a strong performance in goal from Isaac Bunton to secure the season-opening shutout. Carolina carried a 1-0 advantage into halftime and kept the Gyrenes off the scoreboard throughout the second half.
Carolina broke through in the 32nd minute. Phil Ketzscher set up Lefevere, who found the back of the net at the 31:59 mark for his first goal of the season and what proved to be the game-winner.
The Bruins' defense was tested throughout the match as Ave Maria generated 17 shots, including eight on goal. Bunton was up to the challenge, playing all 90 minutes and recording eight saves to earn the clean sheet in his Carolina debut.
Carolina finished with 10 shots and placed four on target. Sonny West led the Bruins with four attempts, including two shots on goal, while Nicolas Meurer recorded three shots. Lefevere finished with the Bruins' lone goal and Ketzscher supplied the match's only assist.
The Bruins also weathered late pressure from Ave Maria. Bunton made saves in the 76th, 81st, 85th and 87th minutes as Carolina protected its one-goal advantage through the final whistle.
Head Coach Craig Golding was pleased with his team's ability to battle through the season opener.
"It was a great way to start the season against a very good Ave Maria side," Golding said. "We knew we would have to compete for the full 90 minutes, and I thought our guys showed a lot of character and discipline. Djordy gave us a big moment in the first half, Isaac was outstanding in goal, and collectively we found a way to protect the lead. There are certainly areas we can improve, but earning a clean sheet and a win in our first match gives us something positive to build on."
With the victory, Carolina begins the 2026 campaign at 1-0, while Ave Maria falls to 1-1.
Up Next
Carolina University returns to action on Wednesday, August 26, when the Bruins travel to face Guilford College. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m.
