PITTSBURGH, Pa. - September 29, 2021 - Chatham Men's Soccer hosted Bethany this evening in the first PAC matchup of the year. A goal in each half would be enough to lift the Cougars over the Bison, winning the game 2-1 for their first PAC points.

In the 2020-21 season, Chatham tied Bethany 3-3 in their final game of the season. The Cougars came into the rematch prepared for the aggressive Bison offense, and were able to fend them off.

Chatham and Bethany both had some early scoring chances that missed, along with saves from first-year Nathaniel Esch and Bison keeper Adis Salihovic. The speed of both teams led to a chippy match, which would end up working in favor of the Cougars.

Bethany drew the first yellow card, which resulted in a free kick taken by senior Ryan Tahbaz. A perfect near-side corner shot found the back of the net with just ten minutes remaining in the first half, giving the Cougars the lead to finish out the half.

The Bison responded with even more physical play, resulting in more yellow cards on both sides. It would take them twenty more minutes of regulation to catch up to the Cougars.

The Cougars continued their defensive strategy, with notable saves coming from Esch. With the defense playing strongly, sophomore Pascal Despinos was able to break for the ball, catching a long pass from Tahbaz via Leandro Nasso, to fake out Bethany's keeper and score the final goal of the game.

The win is huge for Chatham in their third year as a program, especially opening PAC play. The Cougars are now 4-3-1 on the season, and look to continue their win streak at Saint Vincent on Sunday, October 3.