Lewis and Clark Battles Maryville in Final Preseason Scrimmage

GODFREY, IL – Lewis and Clark Community College men's soccer showed growth in its preseason campaign, ending with a scrimmage against Maryville University on Tuesday. 

The Trailblazers, who also had a spring contest against Maryville, looked sharper and more aggressive in their latest meeting. Head coach John Dunn said the difference between the two games was clear.

"I don't think we can compare the games at all. Both teams looked entirely different," Dunn said. "I would say we were more dominant and had much better attacking play yesterday."

Maryville, an NCAA Division II contender, tested Lewis and Clark early. But Dunn said his team's ability to pressure a strong opponent for extended stretches was a positive sign.

"We have played a strong preseason schedule and Maryville added to that," Dunn said. "Being on top of a good team like that for long spells was pleasing. We just need to put that together for 90 minutes."

The Trailblazers found the back of the net when freshman forward Charlie Donaldson scored his first goal for the program. Donaldson's effort was particularly encouraging, Dunn noted, as he had been recovering from illness throughout the week.

"Seeing Charlie Donaldson get his first goal, even though he has been down with sickness for the past week, was great," Dunn said. "I thought David Sanchez played a strong game in the middle of the park as well."

As the regular season approaches, Dunn said the focus will be on fine-tuning tactics and consistency.

"We just need to keep working on our shape on both sides of the ball," he said. "Keep believing in the system and process, and we will be in good shape this year."

As Lewis and Clark wraps up its preseason, they now look forward to their opening regular season contest on August 23rd at 1 p.m. against the Cowley College Tigers at Tim Rooney Stadium in Godfrey, IL. 

Written by Alexandra Dunn, Athletics Social Media Coordinator, Lewis and Clark Community College