ATLANTA --- SEPTEMBER 26, 2006 --- Playing their first game in more than a week, the Clayton State Laker men’s soccer team returned to action on Tuesday night at neighboring rival Emory. However, the home standing Eagles had a little more firepower as they defeated the visiting Lakers 3-1 at the Woodruff Center.

The defeat drops Clayton State to 4-6 overall on the 2006 season heading into Saturday’s home showdown against Lander. Emory, ranked ninth in Division III, improves to 8-0 overall.

Since this was a non-region contest, Clayton State head coach Pete Petersen used it to play numerous players, and he used every player on his bench. In fact, Clayton State’s lone goal came off the bench as Hailab Habtom scored in the 46^th minute off an assist by Angel Kalinov.

However, Emory scored two goals in the first half to set the tone. Patrick Carver gave the Eagles a 1-0 lead in the 22^nd minute after a shot attempt by Chad Chambers was deflected by Laker goalkeeper Chris Cantrell. Three minutes later, Joey Howie gave Emory a 2-0 lead with a shot from the top of the penalty box.

Following Habtom’s goal early in the second half, Emory answered in the 47^th minute with Carver’s second goal of the contest.

Cantrell, making his second collegiate start, combined with Heath Padgett for five saves for Clayton State. Emory goalkeeper Keith Meehan recorded three saves.

The much-anticipated Peach Belt Conference showdown between Clayton State and Lander is set for Saturday afternoon at 5 p.m. at Laker Field.