PHOENIX, Ariz. (UCFKnights.com) – UCF was unable to quiet a raucous crowd of 6,402 on Friday night in a season opening 4-2 defeat at Grand Canyon. Freshman Richard Amon contributed both goals for the Knights in his debut with the program.
"Credit Grand Canyon for creating one of the premiere atmospheres in college soccer, and their team fed off the crowd early in the game," head coach Bryan Cunningham said. "It is important to play matches in tough environments on the road, because they will prepare us for our conference matches later in the season."
In the debut of its new six-million dollar facility, GCU scored two goals in the first 15 minutes, which energized its standing-room only crowd.
The Knights responded six minutes later by cutting the deficit to 2-1. A red card handed out to the Lopes provided UCF a man advantage for the final 51 minutes, but GCU tallied a marker just before and right after halftime to swing momentum in its favor.
AMON NETS A PAIR
- Freshman Richard Amon scored two goals in his first match and made an immediate impact on the squad.
- In the 20th minute, he received a pass from sophomore Gorka Aperribay on the wing and dribbled around a defender before his shot beat the keeper inside the far post.
- The Accra, Ghana, native came through again in the 82nd minute with a quick strike following a pass from junior Matias Pyysalo on a free kick from 25-yards out.
MAKING THEIR DEBUT
- Six newcomers in Brian Jamba, Nathan Bondswell, Jesus Colombo, Richard Amon, Jonathan Dean and Cal Jennings were in the starting lineup for the Knights
- Anton Delwer and Diego Bacellar also appeared in their first contest.
UP NEXT
- The Knights continue a three-game road trip to start the season at Charlotte (9/2) and Mercer (9/11).
- UCF welcomes Florida Gulf Coast for its home opener on Sept. 14 at 7 p.m.
KNIGHTS WATCH
- Knights Watch, the official supporter's group of UCF soccer, debuted during the 2015 campaign as fans, alumni and students came together.
- Membership packages include a T-shirt, soccer scarf, season tickets and several catered tailgates.
- Student can join the group for $15, while fans and alumni can become members for $50.