YONKERS, N.Y. – For the first time in school history on Saturday, the Sarah Lawrence men's soccer team defeated the United States Merchant Marine Academy. The Gryphons defeated the Mariners, 1-0, for the squad's first win of the season at Tibbetts Brook Park.
IN SHORT
Sarah Lawrence (1-6, 1-1) def. USMMA (4-2-1, 0-1), 1-0.
RECAP
Looking for their first win of the season, the Gryphons turned in a gritty performance in front of a loud crowd at Tibbetts Brook Park.
Merchant Marine, picked third in the Skyline Preseason Poll, attempted 10 shots in the opening half. Rookie
Aaron Ashery was impressive, making five saves, including a diving stop in the 27th minute off a header. Ashery again made a tough save in the 42nd minute to keep the sheet clean.
Sarah Lawrence, picked ninth in the preseason poll, scored the lone goal of the contest in the 53rd minute. First-year
Humza Obaid played a long through ball to classmate
Aaron Britton, who used his power and speed to drive the ball down the field before flicking a shot over the outstretched arms of the Merchant Marine goalkeeper for his first collegiate score.
Merchant Marine, who entered the day with wins over Hartwick, Medgar Evers, Centenary and Lehman, the two-time defending CUNYAC champions, continued to be aggressive on offense, taking 10 more shot attempts along with having eight corner kick opportunities. Holding on to a 1-0 margin, the Gryphons' defense was up for the challenge and rose to the occasion, turning away every shot.
Ashery made another three saves in the second half, including a critical stop in the 81st minute. While the play of Ashery was spectacular all afternoon, the performance of the Gryphons' back line cannot go unnoticed.
Dominic Edwards and Carlos Rivandenyra made timely clears throughout the match, while
Josiah Corson made a key save off the line in the 80th minute.
The Gryphons are the third team this season to shutout the Mariners.
UP NEXT
Sarah Lawrence will look to build on its momentum on Wednesday (Sept. 26) with a match against Purchase at Tibbetts Brook Park. Game time is scheduled for 7 p.m.
