Wyoming, MI – The highly anticipated season opener for the Grace Christian University men's soccer team went without blemish, as the Tigers topped the Maranatha Baptist University Sabercats 8-0 at Velting Field Saturday afternoon.

Though Maranatha did not go absent of opportunities for the entire 90 minutes, the Tigers controlled possession for the majority of the game and capitalized well, as the final shot count was 22-3 in their favor.

Midfielder Zak TerMeer scored once and assisted twice for the Tigers, while Forward Tobias Jones scored twice and assisted once. Johann Vega scored twice, and Brett Arnold added a goal and an assist.

Head Coach Dustin Buchanan spoke after the game.

"The start to this year has been a lot different from any other. We have spent a lot of time training, seeing the same faces day in and day out, trying to keep the boys focus and hunger. I give so much credit to this group of guys for their mentality, attitudes and focus and it shows the mentality and discipline in this group. We wanted to start strong as we faced a side who was in the National Tournament with us in 2019. We also knew we would be up against a well organized side. We put on a lot of pressure and the goal finally came. We were able to get time for all of the 23 available field players. I was really happy with our work rate for all of the guys today and the effort they put forth. We have a couple days now to prepare for a difficult match on Tuesday."

The Tigers follow up with another home game next Tuesday against Trine University at 5:30 pm.