Bermuda Run, N.C. – The Shaw University men's soccer team picked up its first win of the 2025 campaign in dramatic fashion, defeating Carolina University 1-0 Monday evening at Truist Sports Park. The result marks an important early milestone for a young Bears squad still finding its rhythm in non-conference play.
After a tightly contested first half where both sides traded chances, the Bears finally broke through in the 67th minute. Freshman forward Julius Jones made his presence felt, netting his first career goal to give Shaw the lead. The strike energized the Bears and proved to be all they would need as the defense locked down Carolina the rest of the way.
Anchoring that defensive effort was goalkeeper Joel Goerner Tellez, who delivered a standout performance between the posts. The freshman recorded nine saves on the night, including a critical stop on a second-half penalty kick that kept Shaw in front. His efforts secured both his first collegiate shutout and victory.
Shaw's back line absorbed heavy pressure but showed grit and resilience, turning away every opportunity. The win improves Shaw to 1-2 overall, while Carolina suffered its first setback of the season, dropping to 3-1.
"This was a total team effort," said head coach Randy McClure. "Julius stepped up in a big moment, and Joel was phenomenal in goal. Tonight we showed the fight and belief that we can build on moving forward."
The Bears will look to carry this momentum into their next match on Wednesday, September 17, when they travel to Fayetteville, N.C. to take on Methodist University. Kickoff is scheduled for 5 p.m.
