HUNTINGTON, Ind. – A first-half goal from Austin Altimus was enough to lift Grace's men's soccer team past Huntington on Saturday, 1-0.

The Lancers' defense proved stout in their Crossroads League opener, limiting the Foresters to six shots and three shots on goal in 90 minutes.

"We played pretty good soccer in the first half and were able to create excellent opportunities. Our possession was average, and our defense was solid," said Grace head coach Matt Hotchkin. "Our second half was disappointing. We failed to move and breathe as a team. A few of our players struggled in their performance, but we also had a couple guys working on their own."

Grace appeared to net a goal within the first five minutes of action, but Justin Festa's headed goal was disallowed due to an offside call.

After a good run of possession midway through the first half, the Lancers (5-2; 1-0 CL) played the ball out wide to Jonathan Sands. The freshman swung in his cross to the penalty box, which Altimus headed into the back of the net for the game's only goal.

Trent Smith and Steven Fiema provided several threatening chances on offense after Altimus's header, but Grace was not able to score on any of their other 12 shot attempts.

Fiema led all players with four shots, and Altimus and Smith added three shots as well.

Grace's defending line of Ben Cahill, Justin Festa, Danilo Carnelos and Benjamin Bassous was a force to be reckoned with, limiting the Foresters (4-5; 0-1 CL) to three shots on goal.

Jacob Cole earned the shutout victory in goal for the Lancers.

"We are happy to get our first win in conference, but we also realize we have a lot to improve on," Hotchkin continued. "The goal for next week is strong performance from everybody and improved team movement."

The Lancers now shift their attention to Wednesday's major clash with rival Indiana Wesleyan at Miller Field. The match, which starts at 4 p.m., will be videostreamed live online as Tourbeau's National Men's Soccer Game of the Week. Fans in attendance will be eligible to receive a number of free giveaways, including pizza, t-shirts and more. To find out more about Wednesday's game, click here.