LEBANON, Tenn. - - Cumberland men's soccer closed out the regular season in style on Saturday afternoon, earning a 2-1 victory over Campbellsville to capture its first Mid-South Conference regular-season championship since 2018.
The Phoenix were forced to overcome an early deficit after Campbellsville opened the scoring in the eighth minute, stunning the home fans on senior day. Rex Pearce brought Cumberland level in the 32nd minute, finishing off a rebound from a Luis Cerejo free kick which clanged off the bar, sending the teams into halftime tied at 1-1.
Cumberland did what Cumberland has done most all season and responded quickly in the early part of the second half, taking the lead just four minutes into the second half. Wesley Mendoza found the back of the net off another assist from Cerejo in the 50th minute, cutting in onto his left foot and lacing a shot into the top corner. The Phoenix defense held firm for the remainder of the contest to secure the victory and finish conference play unbeaten at 4-0-2, totaling 14 points.
Cumberland dominated the attacking numbers, outshooting Campbellsville 20-8 and putting nine shots on target. Cerejo recorded two assists, while Mendoza scored his seventh goal of the season. Pearce added his goal to help secure the conference title.
With the regular season complete, the Phoenix have earned a first-round bye in the MSC Tournament and will advance directly to the semifinals on November 4, when Cumberland will host its opponent at Lindsey Donnell Stadium.
