Freshman goalkeeper Nick Bernsdorf turned away three shots in his Mount Olive debut Thursday night at Amon Field, but visiting UNC Pembroke got a pair of goals from Sean Hoek to defeat the Trojans 3-0 in season-opener for both teams.

Mount Olive (0-1) held firm after Martin Tomter's goal in the seven-minute mark put the Braves ahead 1-0. Both teams played physical, leading to 27 total fouls. Unfortunately for the Trojans most of the time was spent in front of their own goal as UNCP (1-0) outshot Mount Olive 8-2 in the opening 45 minutes.

Still trailing just 1-0, the Trojans narrowly missed tying the match when a John Kwennah shot was corralled by Brave goalkeeper Ryan Hanson. Moments later, the Braves added a second goal. Hoek's header from a Michael Smith pass bounced off several players in front of the net. None were able to direct the shot away.

Eleven minutes into the second half, Hoek added a second tally when his blast from 35 yards out found the corner of the net.

The Trojans' best opportunities in the second period came on shots by Joe Dashiell and Kelly Keaton less than a minute apart. Dashiell's shot just sailed wide, while Hanson came up with a save on Keaton's attempt.

Mount Olive was outshot 12-7 in the match. The Trojans did not take a corner kick in the match.

The Trojans return to action September 8 when Limestone comes to Amon Field for a Conference Carolinas match-up beginning at 4 p.m. The women's match will follow at 7 p.m.