Phoenix, Ariz.- Just four days till their 2023 season officially begins, the Firestorm traveled to the nearby GCU Lopes for an exhibition match. ACU only conceded a penalty kick in the 55th minute, as they did not relinquish their defensive pressure until the final whistle.
     
Score:   Arizona Christian 0, GCU 1 (Exh.)
Records:  Arizona Christian 0-0-0 (0-0-0) | Grand Canyon 0-0-0 (0-0-0)
Location: GCU Stadium - Phoenix, AZ

Match Details

ACU absorbed some pressure early on from GCU, the home team carrying possession and field position through the majority of the first 30 minutes. Despite dominant possession, the Lopes did not threaten to score often, with ACU's backline repelling shots and goalkeeper Carlos Gallardo having steady hands. The Firestorm earned a couple corners and free kicks in the opponent's half of the field, but were unable to capitalize. 

In the second half, GCU was able to get a whistle from the referee off of tangled legs in what was a close call for a penalty kick. The home side buried their shot to make it 1-0. The best scoring opportunity for ACU came with only a few minutes remaining in the match, in the form of a free kick. Neither side made another significant push, leaving the Lopes with a 1-0 victory over the Firestorm.

Thoughts from Coach Ted Krzywiecki

"Today showed the attitude and heart of our team this year above all else," Coach Krzywiecki said. "For us to come here and push them (GCU) to the limit reflects the dedication and work our guys have put in during the off-season and preseason… We have a very strong Embry Riddle team coming in on Tuesday. They are very well coached and won their conference and return a number of starters from last year. It will be a great test."

Next Match

The Firestorm are gearing up for their first game and home opener on Tuesday, August 22, where they take on Embry-Riddle with the first whistle at 8:00 PM. Follow along with @ACUFirestorm on Instagram and Twitter for the latest information.
  
Roll Storm!