Spartans Set to Square Off Against Top-Ranked Lynn

TAMPA, Fla. - The University of Tampa men's soccer team (5-3, 1-1) will be facing off against the top-ranked Lynn University Fighting Knights (9-0, 2-0) in a Sunshine State Conference clash this Saturday at 7:30 pm at Tampa's Pepin Stadium.

After winning five of its first six matches, Tampa has lost its last two matches, falling to Warner Southern and conference foe Rollins. The Fighting Knights are currently riding a nine-game win streak to open the season, scoring 35 goals in that span.

Lynn holds an all-time record of 14-5-1 against the Spartans, including a 5-0 win in Boca Raton last season. Tampa has not defeated the Fighting Knights since the national championship season in 2001. The Fighting Knights enters the match with a five-game win streak against the Spartans.

"We feel fortunate to have this opportunity against what the polls feel is the best team in the country. We have a lot of respect for Lynn and their program. They have been at the top for many years, and we are looking to continue to raise our standard to get back to the success and tradition of University of Tampa soccer. It is games like this that give you a chance to prove yourself," said Bush.

Lynn returns to Tampa for the second time this month, having participated in the Fitz Classic tournament in early September. The Fighting Knights won both of their two games during the weekend, shutting out their opponents to win the tournament the third tie-breaker (goals against) over UT. Both teams posted the same goal differential, but Tampa's lone goal against cost them the tournament crown to Lynn's two shutouts.

Live stats for the match will be provided through The University of Tampa athletics website, www.tampaspartans.com. Tickets may be purchased at the gate for $5 (adults) and $3 (students with valid ID). UT students will be admitted for free with a current student ID.