Men’s Soccer wins its third straight ASUN conference tournament championship 

Lipscomb University men’s soccer won its third straight ASUN Championship Saturday, defeating Bellarmine 1-0.  

The Bisons were charging early, but it was not easy. Excellent goal protection by Bellarmine’s Lukas Tharp prevented a set of goals early from Malachi Jones. That included a saved penalty kick by Tharp to keep the Bisons from catching an early lead. 

Solid defending by Lipscomb set them up to take a 1-0 lead in the 40th minute. Jones was able to find Javanne Smith, who then flicked it into the net.  

In the 75th minute, the Bisons found trouble. Juan Carlos Rodriguez received a red card, putting the Bisons down a man and having to go to their reserve keeper.  

Despite the trouble, the Bisons were successful at defending the Knights and capturing its third straight ASUN Championship.  

Here are takeaways after Saturday’s championship game:

• Javanne Smith was named MVP. 
• The Bisons are heading into the NCAA Tournament 10-3-4 overall, 6-1 in conference, 8-1-1 at home and 2-2-3 on the road.  
• The Bisons will be watching the NCAA Selection Show on Monday at noon to see who they will be facing next.  

Photo Courtesy of Lipscomb Athletics