LORETTO, Pa. (Aug. 31, 2010) – The 2010 men's soccer season is upon us as Saint Francis University is putting the final touches on preparations to open the season with a 7:30 p.m. contest on Wednesday night at in-state rival Duquesne.

The Red Flash will send 16 returning letterwinners, including nine starters, and six newcomers to Pittsburgh for Wednesday night's season opener. SFU was picked to finish seventh in the 11-team Northeast Conference, but returns experience and talent that could help it contend for a league title.

Live stats will be provided for the game at www.francis.edu/livestats.htm. Director of Athletic Communications Bob Volkert will travel with the team, and provide periodic updates via twitter at www.Twitter.com/SFUVolkert.

“Opening day is always special as the new season gets underway and anything is possible,” said Saint Francis head coach Michael Casper. “We believe in our team and we know what we are capable of if we can play our consistent best.

“The game Wednesday night against Duquesne will be a good test as they are a very good side. As a local team, we have developed a nice rivalry with them over the years so the intensity and the atmosphere should be electric. We are looking forward to a great performance and a terrific start to the new season.”

This will be the 12^th meeting between Saint Francis and the Dukes. The Red Flash have an all-time record of 3-4-4 against Duquesne, and won last year's meeting 2-0 in Loretto.

For periodic men's soccer updates and other Red Flash news, follow Director of Athletic Communications Bob Volkert on Twitter at SFUVolkert.