The Shippensburg University men’s soccer team tied, 1-1, when it opened up its Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference campaign against visiting West Chester University Wednesday night at David See Field.
SU, coming off an overtime loss last week, hoped to bounce back into the win column. Unfortunately, a goal by junior Jonathan DeNicola in the second period was all SU could manage.
After a slow first period, the Rams opened up the scoring in the second. A goal by WCU’s Kevin McCann put the Rams up, 1-0. SU senior Sam Talbot evened the score with his assist to DeNicola.
Heading into overtime for the second straight game, SU looked for a better outcome. Shots by Talbot and DeNicola were stopped by Rams’ keeper Garrett Beleiler — who also shut down a late push by SU, ending the game, 1-1.
SU led in all offensive categories, leading in shots 28-14 and corners 10-3. The statistics were called under question by an irate WCU coach. WCU had 3 shots blocked early, but stayed quiet throughout.
Talbot and Templeton came away with positives from the game.
“Looking at the shots we took it was a game we should have had, but can build on heading to Millersville,” Templeton said.
Coach Jeremy Spering echoed those remarks. “It was bittersweet to lead in shots 28-14 and not win, but a lot needs done on defense as we move forward.”
SU heads on the road for a while, stopping first at Millersville University Saturday, Sept. 22. With three PSAC foes coming up. SU looks to get its first PSAC victory away from David See Field.
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