Louisville KY, October 19, 2025

The Bellarmine University men’s soccer team secured a spot in the ASUN Tournament with a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Central Arkansas. The Knights showcased resilience by overcoming an early goal from their opponents, eventually sealing the win with a dramatic late goal in the 78th minute. Senior forward Jean Chastonay played a pivotal role in this match, marking his last home game with significant contributions. With a regular season record of 8-5-3, Bellarmine enters the tournament as the fourth seed, aiming for postseason success.

Bellarmine Men’s Soccer Clinches ASUN Tournament Berth with Home Victory

Louisville, KY – The Bellarmine University men’s soccer team locked in their spot in the ASUN Tournament by defeating Central Arkansas 2-1 during a tense match on Sunday afternoon. This win marked a significant milestone for the Knights, securing their postseason entry as they wrapped up the regular season on a high note.

The game unfolded with intensity, as Bellarmine demonstrated resilience to overcome an early challenge from their opponents. The Knights controlled much of the possession, creating multiple scoring opportunities that kept the crowd engaged. Their effort paid off with two crucial goals that shifted the momentum decisively in their favor.

Key Moments Seal the Dramatic Comeback

In the first half, the Knights found the net through a well-executed play, giving them an initial advantage. However, Central Arkansas responded swiftly, leveling the score shortly after. The match remained tightly contested through the middle stages, with both teams trading possession and near-misses that tested the defenses.

The turning point arrived in the 78th minute, when Bellarmine capitalized on a defensive lapse to score the game-winning goal. This late strike not only clinched the victory but also highlighted the team’s ability to perform under pressure. As the final whistle blew, the home field erupted in celebration, acknowledging the hard-fought battle.

Spotlight on Senior Forward’s Final Home Performance

A standout performer in this match was senior forward Jean Chastonay, who played a pivotal role in both of Bellarmine’s goals. He set up the first score with a precise assist and then delivered the decisive blow himself. This performance came in what was his last regular-season home game, adding an emotional layer to the victory.

Chastonay, set to retire from soccer following the postseason, received a heartfelt standing ovation from the fans as he exited the field. His contributions throughout the season have been instrumental, providing leadership and scoring prowess that helped elevate the team’s standing. The win served as a fitting tribute to his dedication and impact on the program.

Team’s Regular Season Record and Tournament Seeding

With this result, Bellarmine concludes the regular season with an overall record of 8-5-3. This solid performance earned them the fourth seed in the upcoming ASUN Tournament. The seeding positions them well for a competitive run, where they will face new challenges in a single-elimination format.

Coach Chris Neff emphasized the progress made by the squad over the course of the season. He noted that the team has shown consistent improvement in key areas such as teamwork, defensive organization, and offensive creativity. Entering the tournament, Neff views this victory as a strong foundation for what lies ahead, focusing on preparation and execution in high-stakes games.

Broader Context of the ASUN Conference Race

The ASUN Tournament represents a critical juncture for conference teams vying for advancement to the NCAA Championships. Bellarmine’s qualification adds to the excitement, as the Knights join other seeded teams in pursuit of the conference title. Their path will involve analyzing opponents’ strengths and refining strategies to maximize their chances.

This season has been marked by ups and downs for Bellarmine, with notable wins against tough rivals and lessons learned from setbacks. The balanced record reflects a team that has grown through adversity, building depth and confidence along the way. Fans have shown strong support, particularly in home matches, contributing to the electric atmosphere that propelled the Knights to this success.

Looking Ahead to Postseason Play

As the tournament approaches, Bellarmine will shift focus to recovery and tactical adjustments. Players are expected to take time to rest and review game footage, ensuring they are sharp for the opening round. The coaching staff plans to emphasize fundamentals while incorporating elements from recent performances, like Sunday’s win, to maintain momentum.

The Knights’ journey underscores the unpredictable nature of college soccer, where determination and timely execution can turn the tide. With Chastonay’s impending retirement adding motivation, the team enters the postseason united and ready to compete at a high level. Observers anticipate an intriguing tournament bracket, with Bellarmine positioned as a dark horse capable of making noise.

Overall, this victory encapsulates Bellarmine University’s commitment to excellence in athletics. It not only secures their tournament spot but also celebrates the culmination of a senior’s career and the promise of a bright postseason outlook.

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Author: HERE LOUISVILLE