Men's soccer coach Richie Grant had only one goal in mind when making the Tigers spring season schedule - play the toughest teams possible.
The U of M followed up their 0-0 tie with MLS's FC Dallas by playing one of the nation's top amateur programs.
Portmarnock FC made the nearly 4,000-mile trip from Ireland to play the Tigers Wednesday as part of The U of M's spring exhibition schedule.
"They are an excellent club," Grant said. "It was a lot different than a collegiate game. They had some guys in their 30s, so it was youth against experience."
The Tigers struck first, scoring in the 28th minute off a misplayed ball in Portamarnock's zone.
Native Tennessean and sophomore midfielder Jared Britcher put Memphis on the board after maneuvering past Portmarnock goalie Austin Hamon.
"Jared made a great play off of a bad ball," Grant said. "He slotted it home at a difficult angle. Jared scored goals for us in the fall and he is continuing to score goals in the spring."
Strong defense by new transfer Jamie Gilbert, who played all 90 minutes, and another goal by sophomore Adam Montgomery helped Memphis shut out Portmarnock 2-0.
"Jamie was a leader last night and it was a nice surprise for him to perform so well this quickly with the team." Grant said. "But it wasn't our best performance, however it was good to get the win."
While the Tigers may have not played to their full potential Wednesday, the ability to play professional teams during the spring season is helping the Tigers prepare for Conference USA play in the fall.
"Playing professional teams in the spring really helps," Britcher said. "It helps us achieve the level of play that we strive for."
According to Grant, more time in the weight room this spring will hopefully bring the Tigers back to their championship form of two years ago.
"We have a little bit more time for physical development in the spring," he said. "It is a big time for our players to get developed."
The Tigers' next scheduled spring game will be March 25 at the Tim McCage annual tournament.
While the has featured a seven-on-seven style of play in years past, this year will include several teams from Tennessee in full regulation games.
Memphis, Lambuth, Christian Brothers and Rhodes will all play in the tournament.
"It's great to have all the schools from Memphis in the tournament," Grant said. "These games are really wonderful. It helps the guys get exposed to how we play."
