Rebels’ Rally Falls Short In Regular Season Finale At Utah Tech

ST. GEORGE, Utah (UNLVRebels.com) — The UNLV men’s soccer team attempted a flurry of second-half shots, but saw the late rally come up just short as it fell to Utah Tech, 2-1, in the regular season finale Sunday at Greater Zion Stadium.

Facing a one-goal deficit, the Rebels (5-7-5, 2-2-5) fired seven shots and only allowed just one target by the Trailblazers in the final 45 minutes. Utah Tech’s (4-9-4, 3-4-2) two unanswered first-half goals in the 15th minute and the 42nd minute, however, were enough to hold off the Scarlet & Gray aggressive attack.

Junior Kai Merrill put UNLV on the board first with his goal in the eighth minute after finishing the lead pass by sophomore Lucas Gelebart that directed him into the box. It marked Merrill’s second score of the season and Gelebart’s second assist of the year.

During their late push, the Rebels recorded five total shots in the final 15 minutes, including two shots on goal from senior Nico Lopez. The last of Lopez’s attempts required a huge save by Utah Tech’s goalkeeper in the 89th minute after his run created separation from defenders inside the box.

UP NEXT: UNLV will now await the result of the Utah Valley at California Baptist WAC matchup that will determine its fate for the final spot in the conference tournament. The Rebels can clinch a WAC Tournament berth with a UVU draw or loss.