Box Score
RIVERDALE, N.Y. - The Manhattan Men's Soccer team outshot Saint Peter's in the first half 10-8 but could not convert on any as they fell 1-0 to the Peacocks in what was the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference opener for both schools.
The Jaspers (0-9-0; 0-1-0 MAAC) came out and played with intensity and energy for the entire ninety minutes which showcased speed on both sides of the ball and numerous thrilling scoring chances for each squad. Eugene Heerschapp utilized his speed to work around a very athletic Saint Peter's backline multiple times in the first half including a beautiful move inside the box but his shot was stopped by keeper Diego Mendoza.
Both teams battled to a 0-0 score going in to the break and continued the high-octane pace in the second frame. Midfielder Carlo Giachino provided the majority of the offense taking a team high four shots with two landing on net. He also provided multiple through-balls to the front line but the majority of those chances were thwarted by a speedy defense.
Heavy rain prior to the game provided some slick conditions on the turf at Gaelic Park which also led to some missed opportunities as the ball made multiple bounces it wouldn't normally. Both goalkeepers were able to make the rain a non-factor on their play as each was able to prevent any rebound opportunities.
In the 58th minute, Saint Peter's Betim Bajrami beat defender Sam Howard to the inside before sending a low feed across the box that Noah Sadoui buried in to the back of the net giving the Peacocks the 1-0 lead. As time pressed on, the Jaspers pushed harder and harder for the equalizer but could not muster a goal.
Four yellow cards were also issued in the match as Erik Montinard and Daniel Festa received cards for the Jaspers while Bajrami and Kevin Olson were booked for the Peacocks.
Manhattan's George Ellis made six saves in the contest while Mendoza picked up five in the shutout victory. Both teams each had six corner kicks but the Peacocks, who were outshot 10-8 in the first half, took nine shots in the second frame as opposed to the Jaspers three.
The Jaspers will be back in action when they travel to Storrs, Conn. to take on #1 Connecticut on Tue. Oct. 4th.
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