For the second time in three matches the Lee men's soccer team went a full 110-minutes before ending in a scoreless draw with No. 13 Palm Beach Atlantic on a cool Thursday evening at the Lee Soccer Field.
The Flames and Sailfish exchanged blows for much of the match with each team taking 11 shots. Junior Danny Johnston and freshman Jared McWhorter led Lee with three shots each.
"The way we prepared for this game we knew we were going to have our moments. It was one tactical style against another.
We gave them possession and sat back at times because we knew we the spaces would open up and have breaks. We had 11 shots but some of our best chances we weren't quite able to create the shot. I thought in the middle of the second half it just felt like something was going to happen. I was really proud of the guys for continuing to commit to what the game plan was and creating those opportunities."
Flames keeper Tristan Putnam recorded his second shutout of the season while registering four saves in the contest. Putnam has tallied 15 saves this season. Elliott Barker started in net for Palm Beach Atlantic and was credited with three saves.
When asked about his defense Coach Potteiger was quick to point out, "I think they've been great all year. We continue to learn a little more about ourselves each game and that's important for me in my first year. I really think they've gotten better each time out and tonight was their best performance. We've challenged our goalkeepers and back line to do a fantastic job and keep a clean sheet to give us the best chance to win and they've responded and I really appreciate their competitive spirit."
Lee created six corner kicks including two in the first overtime period while the Sailfish took three. The Flames were whistled for 18 fouls compared to 15 on the visitors while each club was shown two yellow cards.
The Flames move to 1-0-2 on the season while Palm Beach Atlantic now sits at 2-0-1.
Lee will face another top 15 squad on Tuesday when Peach Belt Conference foe No. 11 Young Harris College comes to town for a 7 p.m. kick.
Following Tuesday's contest the Flames will open up Gulf South Conference play with a weekend home stand against Delta State (Friday, Sept. 15) and Mississippi College (Sunday, Sept. 17).