CLEVELAND – David Horstmann scored two goals for the Delta State Statesmen, but it was not enough to overtake Florida Tech, as the Statesmen dropped their 2009 men's soccer opener 3-2 on Friday.

The visiting Panthers received a two-goal performance from Stanley Abada. FIT's Joseph Guccione fired home the game-winner in the 83rd minute.

In spite of the loss, Delta State goalkeeper Flavio Romero turned in a phenomenal performance in his first official collegiate game. Romero, a freshman out of Cartagena, Columbia, stopped 13 shots on goal.

Florida Tech peppered the Delta State goal with shots throughout the game, as the Panthers registered a total of 29 shots.

Horstmann tied the game in the 34th minute and again just after the 72nd minute. His two goals were 23rd and 24th goal of his career.

The Statesmen return to the field Sunday when they host Lynn University at 1 p.m. at Delta Field.