March 13, 2012

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - The Memphis men's soccer team returned from its tour in Brazil over spring break after playing four games during the nine-day trip.

"What a fantastic experience for our program," said Head Coach Richie Grant. "We experienced the wonderful culture of Brazil, played in some great matches and watched some quality professional games."

Memphis went 1-2-1 on the tour, with three of the contests coming against professional squads. The Tigers opened the trip with a 1-0 defeat to Santos, the professional club of Brazil's rising star Neymar. Memphis suffered its other set-back against Ituanu, coached by former-Brazilian National Team member Juninho.

The U of M responded with a 1-1 draw against the professional club Vasco de Gama, with forward Austin Gross providing the Tigers' score. Memphis finished the trip with a 3-0 win against 2SV Rio. Forward Tiago Reichert netted the game-winner for Memphis and sophomore All-American Mark Sherrod tallied the last two goals.

Memphis held some of the best attackers in Brazil in check due in part to solid play from the defensive line and the goalkeepers.

"We had some really strong performances from J.J. Greer and Chandler Gagnon at center back," stated Grant. "Over the trip they formed a good partnership and a good foundation for 2012."

"Brazil 2012 was an unbelievable experience for our program and we are very grateful to the many people who contributed and assisted to make this trip possible," said Grant.