Elon 2, Davidson 0

DAVIDSON, N.C. – Chris Thomas tied the all-time mark with goals scored in program history as the Elon men’s soccer team turned in its second shutout in three matches, defeating Davidson, 2-0, on Friday evening at Alumni Field. Thomas tied Mike Wessels with his 43rd career goal.

Despite a kickoff that was delayed for more than an hour because of lightning, the Phoenix (6-2-1, 1-0 Southern Conference) managed to win for the sixth time in is last eight matches. It was also the SoCon opener for the Maroon and Gold.

Thomas added his 12th score of the year in the 27th minute as Gabe Latigue found him alone in the box after a cross from the right side. Elon would go into the half with that 1-0 lead.

The Wildcats (4-4-1, 0-2 SoCon) had some chances in the second half to tie the score but could not convert on four shots and three corner kicks in less than three minutes around the 68th minute.

Thomas would make history when he added his 13th goal of the season in the 78th minute on a through ball down the center from Matt Wescoe from around 18 yards.

The senior forward, who was named the Disney Soccer/NSCAA National Player of the Week earlier in the week, now is tied on top of the Phoenix all-time record book with Wessels (1985-89) in goals scored.

Elon outshot Davidson, 23-12, and had four shots on target. Nathan Dean added his second shutout this season after playing all 90 minutes between the posts and corralling three saves.

The Wildcats were lead in shots by Brian McGue with six, followed by Peter Paras and Alan Reiter with two each. Keeper Matt Pacifici had two save for the contest.

Elon will return to the pitch on Tuesday at West Virginia with kickoff slated to begin at 7 p.m. Davidson is back in action Tuesday, as well, hosting Wake Forest at 7 p.m.