NEWBERG, Ore. --- After a loss and a draw in exhibition play, the George Fox men were primed and ready for their regular season opener, outshooting visiting Bushnell University from Eugene more than two to one for the match in a 2-1 victory at Austin Sports Complex Wednesday night.
How It Happened 
After a scoreless first half, the Bruins scored early in the second period, only to see Bushnell capitalize on a foul in the box just a little over three minutes later, converting the resulting penalty kick to level the score. But Joshua Chang kept control of the ball through a keeper challenge near the right post and slipped in what turned out to be the game-winning goal in the 62nd second minute. The Beacons got just two more shots in the final 28 minutes, neither of which troubled George Fox goalkeeper Alex Muir as the hosts went home happy.
Top Performers
Even better than Chang's game-winning goal was a beautiful backheel pass to set up Kyle Rivell for a 15-yard strike inside the right post for George Fox's first goal of the match. 
"This was a team effort," said Rivell. "We wouldn't have won by playing for ourselves. We had to come together and work for each other in order to take the game."
Coach's Thoughts
"Guys off the bench made a huge impact on the game," said head coach Paul Karver. "We are learning more and more everyday about who we are and who we can be. Tonight Was about the team and certainly a great way to start things."
What It Means
After a 4-0 thumping in their final exhibition match vs. NAIA College Of Idaho Friday, the Bruins showed marked improvement in their first counter of the season.
Up Next
George Fox returns to the pitch Sunday morning to take on the Multnomah Lions at 11:00 a.m. at Austin Sports Complex.