Lynchburg, Va. – The N.C. State Wolfpack defeated the Liberty Flames, 2-0, in a non-conference match, Friday evening at Osborne Stadium.

      Both teams displayed solid defensive play throughout the contest, keeping shots at a premium on the night. A goal in each half by the Wolfpack proved to be the difference.

      Liberty goalkeeper Jeremy Lee recorded two saves. N.C. State goalkeeper Alex McCauley did not make a save, while playing the entire 90 minutes. However, the Wolfpack keeper was active in the contest, taking away several opportunities at shots by the Flames with aggressive play.

      With strong defensive efforts by both teams playing such a prominent role, N.C. State finished with seven shots, while Liberty had one shot in the contest.

      Liberty drops to 1-2 on the season. N.C. State remains unbeaten, moving to 3-0.

      The Wolfpack scored on the first shot of the game at 6:24. After a scramble in front of the Liberty net, the ball came free in the center of the field just above the 18-yard box. There, defender Caleb Duvernay pushed a shot from 25 yards out into the left side of the net for his first goal of the season and a 1-0 visitors’ advantage.

      A foul near the right side of the 18-yard box gave N.C. State an early opportunity in the second half during the 46^th minute. A free kick to the left post found the head of Reed Norton. However, Lee was there to pull the ball out of the air for a save.

      The Wolfpack made it, 2-0, during the 51^st minute. Midfielder Yanni Hachem worked his way into space on the right side of the box and sent a pass across the front of the goal. Forward Tanner Roberts headed the ball into the net for his first goal of the year for what proved to be the final score of 2-0.

      Liberty moved an extra man forward during the final 10 minutes and was able to generate some offensive opportunities.  However, McCauley step out from his goal line several times to take away scoring chances by either possessing the ball or clearing it with his feet.

      Liberty will next host the Marshall Thundering Herd, Tuesday night at Osborne Stadium. The non-conference match is scheduled for 6 p.m.

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