FLORENCE, S.C. — Lenoir-Rhyne and Francis Marion battled to a 1-1 draw Wednesday evening in a competitive NCAA Division II matchup that saw both regional contenders leave points on the table. The visiting Bears equalized in the 59th minute through Aaron Garrote's finish, canceling out Antonio Garda's first-half opener for the home Patriots.
Francis Marion struck first when Garda found the back of the net in the 22nd minute, giving the hosts an advantage they carried into halftime. The goal came during a period where the Patriots controlled possession and created multiple scoring opportunities. However, Lenoir-Rhyne emerged from the break with renewed intensity, pressing higher and forcing Francis Marion into a more defensive posture.
The Bears' persistence paid dividends in the 59th minute when Garrote capitalized on a chance in the box, with Jonas Moos credited with the assist. The goal shifted momentum decisively toward the visitors, who had entered the match riding a two-game winning streak. From that point forward, neither team could break through despite sustained pressure from both sides.
Lenoir-Rhyne dominated the final stages, generating four shots on goal compared to Francis Marion's three for the match. The Bears' attacking intent was evident in their willingness to commit players forward, though Francis Marion's defense, anchored by goalkeeper Ian Milla's three saves, held firm when it mattered most. The Patriots managed two saves of their own while absorbing the late onslaught.
Disciplinary issues plagued both squads throughout the contest. Francis Marion accumulated six yellow cards—including