Embry-Riddle delivered a commanding performance Thursday evening, defeating Hope International University 3-1 at home to improve their season record to 4-3-3 overall and 3-1-2 in conference play.
The Eagles wasted no time asserting themselves, striking early in the 11th minute when Julian Albanil found the back of the net off a well-placed assist from Nitai Bental. The momentum continued in the 36th minute as Cesar Battistini doubled the lead with a clinical finish, sending Embry-Riddle into halftime with a 2–0 advantage.
Hope International responded in the second half with a goal from Rafa Gonzalez in the 65th minute, assisted by Gio Marin, briefly narrowing the gap. But the Eagles sealed the win in the 84th minute when Bental, who had already contributed an assist, scored a goal of his own off a setup from Sean Maguire.
Goalkeeper Alex Bissett anchored the defense with five saves, including several key stops in the second half to preserve the lead.
Embry-Riddle will continue GSAC play against Life Pacific on Saturday with kickoff scheduled for 7:30pm on Varsity Field.