MEMPHIS, Tenn. – The Christian Brothers University men's soccer team opened the 2025 season with a 1-0 victory over Harding University on Thursday evening at Signaigo Field. The win marks a successful start to the year and a strong showing in the Bucs' first home match of the season.

After a slow start in the first half, CBU found its footing in the second half, with several impactful performances from players coming off the bench. The fresh legs injected new energy into the squad, shifting the momentum in favor of the home side.

The game's only goal came from senior forward Olivier Van Der Tuin, who broke the deadlock with a moment of brilliance. Van Der Tuin skillfully maneuvered around the Harding goalkeeper and calmly slotted the ball into the back of the net with a soft right-footed finish, securing the lead and ultimately the win for the Bucs.

Defensively, CBU held firm throughout the second half, maintaining composure and discipline to preserve the clean sheet.

"Demanding the standards," said senior forward Alex Blanche, that's what the coaches asked for in the second half. "The big guy up top (Olivier) was top class, and the guys who came off the bench gave us exactly what we needed."

The Bucs return to action on Saturday, September 6th, as they host Ouachita Baptist University.

FINAL SCORE:

Christian Brothers University 1, Harding University 0

For more information on CBU Men's Soccer, visit www.cbubucs.com or follow @CBUBucs on social media.