Greenville, S.C. – Christian Kraus' first period goal proved to be the difference as Furman topped Lees-McRae, 1-0, in the men's soccer exhibition opener for both schools on Saturday night at Stone Stadium.
 
After the start of the match was delayed for more than an hour due to a line of heavy thunderstorms, Kraus put the Paladins in front in the 33^rd minute off a set piece. Luke Tandy played his free kick to Josh Hosie on the right wing and the senior lofted a cross towards the back post that Kraus nodded past the Bobcats' goalkeeper for the lone score of the match.
 
"It was a good start for us," said Paladin head coach Doug Allison. "We were able to finally get the match in following the weather and we were able to get significant minutes for a lot of guys. Now we'll go back to training and prepare for Tuesday's trip to Clemson."
 
Furman managed a 10-6 edge in shot attempts in the match, which was played in three 30-minute segments. Goalkeepers Cameron Maung-Maung, Carter Nunnery, and Aaron Salinas combined on the shutout for the Paladins.
 
Clemson will host Furman in a 7 p.m. exhibition contest on Tuesday at Historic Riggs Field before the Paladins host North Florida on Friday, August 18.