BOILING SPRINGS, N.C. - High Point continued their impressive conference campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Gardner-Webb on Saturday afternoon at Greene-Harbison Stadium. The Panthers (10-1-3) extended their winning streak to three matches while handing the Bulldogs (11-2-2) just their second loss of the season.
Lukas Kamrath opened the scoring for High Point in the 20th minute with a low strike to the right corner. Daniel Lugo doubled the advantage in the 55th minute off an assist from Alfred Baafi, before Jefferson Amaya sealed the result with High Point's third goal in the 73rd minute.
The first half saw High Point establish control early through precise possession play. Beau Yantz and Koven Johnson controlled the midfield tempo, while Gardner-Webb's Franco Ocana and Samson Kpardeh generated chances but couldn't convert. The Bulldogs' best opportunity came in the 26th minute when Kpardeh's shot sailed high over the crossbar.
High Point's tactical discipline continued to frustrate Gardner-Webb after the break. The Panthers' defensive unit, anchored by Noah Behrmann and Ryan Behrmann, limited the Bulldogs to mostly speculative attempts. Gardner-Webb's Leo Andrade received a yellow card in the 55th minute, reflecting the home team's growing frustration as they struggled to break down High Point's organized defense.
The statistical breakdown highlighted High Point's efficient performance. While Gardner-Webb recorded more total shots (12-8), the Panthers were more clinical with their chances, putting five on target compared to the Bulldogs' six. High Point also earned seven corner kicks to Gardner-Webb's five, demonstrating their attacking persistence throughout the match.
Several Panthers delivered standout individual performances. Celestin Blondel's distribution from midfield created numerous attacking opportunities, while Daniel Lugo's goal capped an impressive offensive display. For Gardner-Webb, Franco Ocana showed creativity in attack with three shots, though none found the back of the net.
The match showcased High Point's tactical superiority, particularly in transition moments. The Panthers' quick counterattacks repeatedly caught Gardner-Webb's defense in vulnerable positions. Head coach Zach Haines' strategic substitutions, including the introduction of Mo Guettel and Chris Niblock in the second half, helped maintain the team's high-pressing intensity.
Both teams entered the match in strong form, with Gardner-Webb having lost just once previously this season. However, High Point's conference experience proved decisive, as they extended their unbeaten streak in league play. The Bulldogs struggled to match the Panthers' combination of defensive organization and clinical finishing.
The result carries significant implications for both programs. High Point strengthened their position atop the conference standings and will look to maintain momentum when they visit Davidson on October 28. Gardner-Webb, despite the setback, remains in strong position for postseason play and will aim to rebound at UNC Asheville on November 1.
The match officials maintained consistent control throughout, issuing four yellow cards total - two to each team. Jefferson Amaya and Nick Herb were cautioned for High Point, while Gardner-Webb's Leo Andrade and Breno Correia also entered the referee's book for unsporting behavior.