CANTON -- The Bill Lawrence era began with a bang on Thursday for the Malone University men's soccer team.

The Pioneers scored twice in the first half, and four more times in the second 45 minutes to pick up a 6-2 win over D'Youville University. 

THE ESSENTIALS

• Final Score: Malone University Pioneers 6 - D'Youville University Saints 2
• Records: Malone (1-0) | D'Youville (0-1)
• Location: Canton, Ohio | Pioneer Park - King Field

THE MATCH
Freshman Christian Piccolotto broke a scoreless tie in the 21st minute when he scored the opening goal off of Oriol Roset's assist. 

Less than ten minutes Tha Lwe's goal put Malone ahead 2-0.

A pair of Colton Fry scores inside the first seven minutes of the second half seemingly put the match out of reach. However, the scoring was far from over. 

The Saints got on the board for the first time in the 62nd minute. 

Malone's responded with scores by Alex Bibza (67') and Fraeday Moo (69'). 

D'Youville added another to their tally in the 74th minute, but ultimately the Pioneers were able to easily hold on for the 6-2 win.

DETAILS
Malone outshout D'Youville by a 20-8 mark. 12 of the Pioneers opportunities were put on frame. 

Thursday's win marks the first 1-0 start for Malone since the 2019 campaign. 

The six goals scored is the most by a Pioneer team since a 7-0 win over Ohio Valley University back in September of 2014. 

WHAT'S NEXT
Malone continues the season-opening homestand on Saturday night when they welcome the Alderson Broaddus University Battlers to King Field.

Kick-off is set for 6:00 p.m.

FOLLOW THE PIONEERS
To keep up to date with everything surrounding the Malone University athletic programs this year follow the Pioneers on Twitter and Instagram, like Malone University Athletics on Facebook or visit www.malonepioneers.com.