WINTER PARK — Freshman Tosan Popo netted both goals for the Rollins Tars (6-0-0) as they defeated the St. Leo’s Lions , 2-1,  on Wednesday night at the Barker Family Stadium.

“We just had to stay patient, and we did, and eventually the goals came,” said Popo.

The scoring got underway in the 52nd minute, as Popo delivered to get the Tars on the scoresheet. The Essex, England native would rocket his second goal 10 minutes later after a through-ball from fellow Englishman Gareth Partridge found Popo to give the Tars the lead.

The goals marked the first two of Popo’s collegiate career, coincidentally coming on the freshman’s 21st birthday.

The teams went into the half scoreless as St. Leo’s decided to lean on a straight defensive strategy. The first half saw limited scoring opportunities, with Rollins controlling the pace with precise passing and unselfish play.

Javeim Blanchette would put the Lions on the board in the 66th minute off a corner kick. Rollins would fend off a tenacious squad in St. Leo’s, but after several key saves by goalkeeper Keneil Baker the Tars held on for the win.

Rollins will now begin conference play with  stops in Melbourne and Boca Raton, to  face Florida Tech, and Lynn University before returning Oct. 4 to take on the University of Tampa at Barker Family Stadium. The Tars beat Florida Tech 4-0 at home earlier this year.

Fans can listen to all the action live on the Tars Sports Network at RollinsSports.com.