MORROW, Ga. – October 3, 2007 – Early momentum is always key in soccer, and it was that early momentum that helped the Clayton State Laker men’s soccer team on Wednesday night against neighboring Division III power Emory.

The Lakers scored two early goals and then used its defense to fend off a dangerous Eagle squad, giving Clayton State a 2-0 victory over Emory at Laker Field. The victory improves 20th-ranked Clayton State to 7-2-1. All seven of Clayton State’s victories have come via the shutout.

It was the first defeat of the season for Emory, which entered the game 10-0 and ranked 12th in Division II. It’s also the first victory by Clayton State in five tries against Emory.

Clayton State struck quickly in the first half. The Lakers took a 1-0 lead in the ninth minute as a pair of freshmen hooked up for the score. Defender Brett Neilsen dribbled the ball down the left sideline and into the box, feeding Jamal Geathers for his 11th goal of the season.

10 minutes later, the Lakers struck again as Matthias Faublas scored from the top of the penalty off a direct kick by Jarrid Nicholson.

After that, the Lakers dodged a number of bullets against the attacking Eagles. Emory actually out-shot Clayton State 15-10, and the 15 shots were the most allowed by the Lakers in a game this season.

Clayton State goalkeepers Janiel Simon and Billy Hale were stellar in combining for the shutout with six saves. Emory goalkeeper Jeremy Irons recorded one save in the defeat.

Clayton State returns to Peach Belt Conference action on Saturday, playing host to rival North Georgia at 4:30 p.m.