“Haitian Sensation” lifts Lakers past Queens 2-1 in overtime
Faublas scores game-winner to boost Clayton State to 2-3 overall

MORROW, Ga. — SEPTEMBER 2, 2006 — All the Clayton State Laker men’s soccer needed was a break to go its way, and it happened on Saturday against visiting Queens in the Laker Shootout.

Freshman newcomer Matthias Faublas scored the game-winning goal nine minutes into overtime, lifting the Lakers to a much-needed 2-1 victory over the talented Royals. The victory improves Clayton State, ranked eighth nationally in Division II, to 2-3 overall.

Faublas missed most of preseason camp dealing with Visa problems in his home country of Haiti. But his arrival was worth the wait on Saturday. He took a cross pass from Angel Kalinov inside the penalty and hammered home the game-winner past Queens goalkeeper Dan Williams.

Lightning literally almost struck Clayton State again in the early part of the season. For the third time this season, the Lakers let a late lead evaporate. Trailing 1-0, Queens got a break on a Clayton State foul inside the penalty. The Royals’ David Palma cashed in on the mistake, nailing the penalty kick in the 85th minute to tie the game.

Playing in miserable conditions, the two teams played a solid defensive battle. The Lakers, however, took a 1-0 lead two minutes into the game when midfielder Johnny Lara scored off an assist by Kalinov.

Laker goalkeeper Heath Padgett played a superb game with five saves in the victory.

Clayton State opens Peach Belt Conference play on Friday at 4 p.m. at North Georgia.