Pembroke, N.C. – Down a man and 36 seconds into overtime, the Coker Cobras earned their first win over the University of North Carolina- Pembroke Braves men’s soccer team, with a 2-1 victory. The two goals allowed by the Braves is also the most allowed in a match against Coker in 15 meetings. The win gives Coker a 1-0 record to open their 2008 season.

Coker and Pembroke keep things even through the first half of play, with UNC-P out shooting the Cobras 10-2, yet the score remained 0-0. In the second half, Mike Crook (Bradenton, FL) got the Cobras on the board with his first goal of the season, with a one timer from just outside the 18 yard box at the 51st minute. Four minutes later Rondell Honora (Charlotte, NC) evened the score at 1-1 as he found the back of the net off a free kick deflection, with an assist from Carlos Capriano.

Coker goalkeeper, Joel Tyson (Irmo, SC) was able to keep the Braves at bay making six saves in the second half and making nine total in the game and leading the Cobras to overtime.

After just 36 seconds of overtime, Marc Mergena (Port-au-Prince, Haiti) sent a cross into the box that Ben Beetch (Palmer, Alaska) put home from close range giving the Cobras their first victory of the season.

“The guys played with a lot of heart and dedication tonight,” said Coach Robert Lane. “We fought hard all night and even though we didn’t have many chances we were able to take advantage of the ones we had and we came out really strong in overtime.”

Coker returns home for their home opener on Sunday, August 31. Kick-off is scheduled for 4:00 p.m. at the Coker College Soccer Field.