The Batten University men's soccer team earned a 2-1 victory over Roanoke, improving to 3-2-3 in conference play. Roanoke fell to 4-9-2 overall and 2-5-1 in conference action.
Batten opened the scoring in the 11th minute when Guillermo Merino found the back of the net off an assist from Noah Kowalko, giving the Marlins an early 1-0 advantage.
The Marlins continued to create chances throughout the opening half. JaMarhe Wills and Mason Wakefield each put shots on goal, while Damen Metry also tested the Roanoke defense as Batten carried its one-goal lead into halftime.
Batten doubled its advantage in the 62nd minute when Wakefield scored to make it 2-0. The Marlins continued to pressure shortly after the goal, with Kowalko and Wills each putting attempts on frame.
Roanoke cut the lead to 2-1 in the 70th minute, but Batten held firm over the final 20 minutes. Angelo Retzos put another shot on goal in the 77th minute, while Adrian Najarro made a save later in the half to help preserve the advantage.
Batten finished the match with 12 shots, including eight on goal. Wills led the Marlins with four shots, putting two on frame, while Wakefield recorded three shots and two on goal. Merino scored on his lone shot of the match, while Kowalko finished with a shot on goal and an assist.
Najarro played all 90 minutes in goal for Batten and recorded three saves as the Marlins secured the conference victory.
