BUIES CREEK, N.C. — Campbell defeated the William & Mary men's soccer team 2-1 on Friday at Eakes Athletics Complex. The game marked the CAA conference opener for both schools.
 
The Camels seized an early advantage, scoring both goals in the first half. They unleashed 13 total shots with six on target, while the Tribe responded with determination, ultimately recording 10 shots overall. Campbell's defense held firm with four saves to secure the victory.
 
The opening half saw Campbell take charge quickly with a goal by Ethan Roberts in the first two minutes.
 
The Tribe's Karan Sobti worked diligently in goal, making crucial saves against a pair of efforts from the Camels. The Tribe tried to respond with an offensive push with Gabe Ruitenberg firing a shot in the 20th minute that came off a scrum in the box and required a diving save from the keeper.
 
Sam Delgado and Aidan Morrison tried their hand at pulling the Tribe closer but had their shots saved. Morrison's chance came just before the end of the first half, taking a shot from inside the box as the keeper came out to challenge it and make the save.
 
The hosts ended the half with a 2-0 lead.
 
In the second half, W&M made strategic adjustments, with key plays from Sobti and Webb Kosich. A Sobti save in the 48th minute kept them competitive before Kosich put the Tribe on the board.
 
Koshich, a senior, found the net in the 52nd minute, capitalizing on a rebound off a Sam Delgado free kick to trim the deficit.
 
The Tribe attempted to maintain pressure, firing attempts from Morrison and Diogo Branco. However, their valiant effort to find an equalizer was continually stymied by the resolute Campbell defense before the match concluded with a 2-1 scoreline.
 
Kosich scored off two shots, with one on target for the Green and Gold. Delgado added an assist and registered three shots, two of which were on goal. Sobti recorded four saves on 13 shots faced.
 
The Tribe will return to Williamsburg hosting Rutgers on Monday. The match is scheduled for 6 p.m. at Martin Family Stadium and will be broadcast on FloCollege.