FLORENCE , S.C. – In a rematch of last year’s Conference Carolinas Tournament final, preseason favorite Francis Marion University tied with the No.2 preseason choice Chowan University 1-1, Saturday evening in men’s soccer play.

Francis Marion's David Guevara defends against Chowan during Saturday's match. Picasa

Francis Marion (0-1-2, 0-0-1) will continue conference play on Wednesday as the Patriots play at the University of Mount Olive for a 7 p.m. kickoff.

On Saturday, the two teams batted through a scoreless first half that featured only six combined shots.

FMU senior midfielder Toufik Najem’s long blast in the 14th minute forced a leaping save by Chowan goalkeeper Lucas Kibrya that resulted in a Patriot corner kick as he pushed the ball over the crossbar.

Following a Hawks’ co

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