The Briar Cliff men's soccer team opened the 2026 season with a 2-0 victory over Kansas Wesleyan University Saturday afternoon in Salina, Kansas.
After a scoreless first half, the Chargers broke through in the 74th minute when Ignacio Barrios found the back of the net with an unassisted goal to give Briar Cliff a 1-0 advantage.
The Cliff added to its lead just over eight minutes later. In the 83rd minute, Angjelos Arapi converted a pass from Ruben Figueroa to push the Chargers' advantage to 2-0.
The Chargers controlled the offensive attack throughout the match, finishing with a 13-6 edge in total shots and a 9-2 advantage in shots on goal. Briar Cliff also earned nine corner kicks compared to eight for Kansas Wesleyan.
Barrios led the Chargers with three shots and one goal, while Figueroa added three shots and two shots on goal while assisting on Arapi's goal. Salomon Kalotsh also recorded three shots and three shots on goal.
Goalkeeper Lucas Attanasio recorded two saves in 90 minutes of action to help the Chargers secure the shutout.
Briar Cliff returns to action Wednesday, August 26, at 7 p.m. taking on the University of Saint Mary in Leavenworth, Kansas.
#BattleOn
