RICHMEND, Ind. – The Earlham College men's soccer team opened conference action with a win against Franklin College in Matlack-Messer Stadium.

The Grizzlies struck first, taking a 1-0 lead in the 38th minute of play. The visitors held their lead into the halftime break. Franklin had a 5-4 shots advantage in the opening half. 

In the 58th minute, Aiden Martinelli took a deep run down the left side of the Grizzly penalty area and placed a cross through the box for Mason Paul to hit the equalizer. 

Nic Wilson got a run down the left side, and laid off the ball to Markku Laukkaned in the middle. Laukkanen then sent Wilson on a through ball in the penalty area for a 1v1 chance with the goalkeeper. Wilson then one-touched a shot to the back corner for the lead.

Rhoi Phulusa delivered the final goal in the 84th minute on a breakaway down the right side. 

Earlham outshot the Grizzlies 13-9, and led 11-3 in corner kicks. 

Ryland Wamsley collected one save in goal. 

Earlham continues HCAC action next Saturday at Manchester University. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 pm.