MORROW, Ga. –The Clayton State University men's soccer team hosted the #7 University of Tampa Spartans at Laker Field on Saturday afternoon. The Spartans scored twice in the second half and defeated the Lakers, 2-1. 
 
The Lakers struck first in the first half.  In the 3^rd minute, Fabian Wagner sent a ball in and found Camilo Velez.  Velez then crossed the ball and found Gonzalo LaChica who headed the ball into the back of the net.  The Lakers led 1-0.  In the 19^th minute, the Lakers had another great chance.  Off a corner kick, Othmane Chagour placed a header on net but Spartan keeper Alex Hare made a great save keeping the score at 1-0.  Tampa's best opportunity came in the 23^rd minute but they drew offside and kept the score at, 1-0. 
 
The Lakers took a 1-0 lead going into the halftime break. 
 
Halftime: Clayton State 1, #7 Tampa 0
 
Tampa struck first in the second half as they scored a goal at the 51^st minute deadlocking the match at one.  Five minutes later, the Spartans scored the go-ahead goal and made the score, 2-1.  The Lakers, after the goals, held the ball for most of the half and had some good opportunities.  In the 74^th minute, LaChica sent in a shot, but it hit woodwork and the match was still at 2-1.  The Lakers had another opportunity in the 85^th minute as Velez's shot was saved by the Tampa keeper. 
 
The Lakers fell in their home opener, 2-1. 
 
QUICK HITS

• The Lakers outshot Tampa, 12-11. 
• George Roke saved four shots
• LaChica scored his second goal of the season and Velez assisted on his second goal as well. 
• LaChica led the team with four shots

 
WHAT'S NEXT?
The Lakers (1-2-1) open PBC play on the road at USC Aiken on Wednesday, September 17^th at 4:30 p.m.  Please visit claytonstatesports.com for all live links. 
 
Be sure to follow Clayton State Athletics, "South Atlanta's College Team" on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.