Game 1 Recap: Rhodes vs. Hendrix
In a strong home performance, the Rhodes College men's soccer team defeated Hendrix College by a final score of 3-0 on September 5, 2025 at Rhodes Soccer Field in Memphis, Tenn. The Lynx capitalized on early chances and maintained control throughout, earning their first win of the season with a balanced offensive effort and a clean sheet.
Key Performances
Junior Howie Eldridge opened the scoring in the 14th minute, recording his first career goal off a setup from freshman Vincent Stephens. Minutes later, Matthew Ahl doubled the lead with his first goal of the year, assisted by Ben Novello. The pair connected again in the second half, with Ahl providing the assist on Novello's 55th-minute strike to seal the result.
Defensively, Rhodes limited Hendrix to just five shots, with goalkeeper Henri Kettner making two saves to preserve the shutout. The back line stayed composed under pressure, while the midfield kept possession flowing and created consistent scoring opportunities.
Game Highlights
Rhodes jumped out to a 2-0 halftime advantage thanks to goals from Eldridge and Ahl, building momentum in front of their home crowd. After a long weather delay, Novello's second-half finish extended the cushion, and the Lynx outshot Hendrix 18-5 while earning six corner kicks. The defense held firm to secure the team's first clean sheet of the year.
Game 2 Recap: Rhodes vs. Ozarks
In a second-half surge, the Rhodes College men's soccer team defeated the University of the Ozarks by a final score of 2-1 on September 7, 2025 at Rhodes Soccer Field in Memphis, Tenn. After a scoreless opening half, the Lynx broke through with two late goals and held off a late response to secure their second win of the season.
Key Performances
Pierce Miller delivered the breakthrough in the 75th minute, scoring his first goal of the season to put Rhodes in front. Just seven minutes later, Jack Elliott doubled the advantage with his first tally of the year, giving the Lynx crucial breathing room.
Goalkeeper Henri Kettner recorded one save as the Lynx back line limited Ozarks to just four shots, holding steady even after conceding a late goal.
Game Highlights
After a defensive first half, Rhodes found its attacking rhythm in the final 20 minutes. Miller's strike opened the scoring before Elliott extended the lead, putting Rhodes firmly in control. Ozarks responded quickly with a goal from Harper Branch in the 83rd minute, but the Lynx defense shut down further chances. Rhodes finished with a 14-4 edge in shots and generated 10 corner kicks, creating steady pressure throughout the match.
Up Next: Rhodes vs. WashU
With this result, Rhodes (2-2-0) prepares to host WashU on September 12, 2025 for senior day. The Lynx will look to build on back-to-back victories as non-conference play continues.
