Box Score Buffalo, NY – The D'Youville men's soccer team dropped their final home game before conference play on Sunday afternoon, suffering a 2-0 loss to the Utica Pioneers.
Utica was on the attack early in the game, totaling four shots in the first 15 minutes of play. The Spartans would then begin to build an attack of their own with shots from three different players, showcasing a team effort on offense. As the half wore on, neither team was able to break the scoreless tie as they went back-and-forth, trading shots and chances to take the lead. However, both defenses outlasted the offenses to keep the game scoreless after 45 minutes.
The second half began with the two teams trading chances again, but Utica was able finally drive home a chance in the 55th minute, giving the Pioneers a 1-0 lead. D'Youville picked up their offensive efforts following the first goal of the game, including a series of chances within the Utica box that were all near goals. However the Pioneers took advantage on another opportunity, doubling their lead in the 66th minute off a header inside the box.
As full-time neared, the Spartans were able to get a few more chances on goal in attempt to get back into the game, but it was too late. Utica held on for the remainder of the game, defeating D'Youville by the final score of 2-0.
On offense, Hunter Sherman (Lockport, NY/Lockport) led the way for D'Youville with six shots. Alf Egge (Stavanger, Norway/Stavanger International) had a team high two shots on goal, with Paul Gettman (Amherst, NY/Williamsville South) also recording two shots. Jake Kowalewski (Attica, NY/Attica) had a strong game in the midfield.
In goal, Peter Petruzzo (Clarence, NY/Clarence) played very well, making four saves on six shots. Center backs Matt Davis (Spencerport, NY/Spencerport) and Mike Lekanka (Newfane, NY/Newfane) had exceptional games with Jason Wilson (Binghamton, NY/Chenango Forks) also providing a big presence. On the outside, Aweso Noor (Buffalo, NY/Canisius) and Allan Wade (Pendleton, NY/Starpoint) each played well on defense, but also going forward.
The next game for D'Youville will be at St. John Fisher this Tuesday, September 19 at 4:00pm.
