Eastern’s men’s soccer team got its first Summit League win with a 2-1 victory over Oral Roberts on Friday.

The win improves the Panthers record to 5-5-1 overall and 1-1-1 in conference play, while Oral Roberts falls to 3-7 overall and 1-2 in the Summit League.

The Panthers were able to get on the board early when senior forward Ryan Child connected on his first goal of the season. Jake Brillhart took a shot that was mishandled by Oral Roberts goalkeeper Nick Potolick. The shot bounced right to Child who kicked it in from three yards out.

“I was lucky when (Potolick) spilled (the save),” Child said. “Then I just tapped it in.”

This offseason Child broke his leg, and said he might not have been ready in time for the season if it were not for the work of assistant athletic trainer Brett Penning. Child said he thanks Penning and the training staff for their hard work on getting him back for his senior season.

Eastern was able to extend its lead just 13 minutes later when Oral Roberts scored an own goal. The goal was a mistake made by the defense after senior defenseman Mike Picinich served the ball off a foul call.

The Golden Eagles were able to trim the lead to 2-1, when Jarrett Hamilton connected on his fourth goal of the season. Hamilton hit an unassisted strike for the top of the box past sophomore goalkeeper Tyler Kelley.

The second half was a defensive battle as both teams struggled to get shots off. The Panthers and Oral Roberts combined for six shots in the second half; however, they also combined for 18 fouls.

Head coach Adam Howarth said these conference games are always physical because both teams are fighting for their lives.

Howarth also said it was a great win for the team as the team picked up its defensive play in the second half.

The Panthers return to action Wednesday on the road at Loyola. Game time is scheduled for 7 p.m.

Rob Mortell can be reached at 581-7944 or at rdmortell@eiu.edu