CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Highlanders went on the road Wednesday night and drew even with Queens 1-1 as James Gardev secured his first career goal.  

"I was really pleased with our attitude and effort tonight" said head coach Chris Barrett. "This was a very physical game and we responded really well in the second half and gave ourselves chances to win the game after tying it up on a great goal off a corner. This team continues to show the fight and resiliency needed to be successful in conference play. I am really proud of how this team continues to stay together and fight for each other no matter the situation. We now switch our focus to conference play where it is a whole new season". 

During the first 45 minutes of the game, the Highlanders found themselves down 1-0 with 10 minutes left in the half. Earlier in the half the Highlanders played well in a match that was back and forth for the full 90 minutes. Alex Eydelman notched an incredible save to keep the Royals off the scoreboard early in the match. In the 36th mintue, Queens' Louis Goldsack got off a low shot towards the bottom left corner that was just out of reach for Eydelman to give the Royals the lead. 

In the latter half of the game the Highlanders built more aggression on the offensive side of the ball as they commanded possesion in the Royals half of the field for the remainder of the match. The Royals defense was able to shut down any opportunities that would've been dangerous until the 74th minute on a Highlander corner. James Gardev was able to secure his first goal as a Highlander to tie up the match at one-all. Cristian Cruz had an opportunity in the dying moments of the match to put the Highlanders ahead of the Royals but the attempt sailed just over the net. 

KEY STATS   

• The Highlanders ripped off 10 shots, with Cristian Cruz leading the team with three shots   

• Sophomore James Gardev secured first career goal in his 18th career start. 

• Queens' goalkeeper was forced to save five shots, a majority coming in the final 45.  

  
UP NEXT   
The Highlanders return home to Cupp Stadium as they face High Point to open conference play on Monday, Oct. 2. That match is set for a 7 p.m. kickoff and will be streamed on ESPN+.  
   
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