TEANECK, N.J. - The FDU Knights opened their season with a 3-2 victory over the Manhattan Jaspers. Notably, tonight's win marked head coach
Jaymee Highcock's first win at the helm of the men's soccer program.
The Knights out-shot the Jaspers 13-12. Of those shots, the Knights had six shots on goal in comparison to the Jaspers five. Graduate student,
Alex Kryazhev led the Knights offensively with two goals, which is a career high for him and his first goals wearing the Burgundy and Blue. NK Tima logged his first career goal at FDU as well in the late minutes of the second half as well.
Takuto Nishide and
Kevin Ruiz contributed an assist each in today's contest.
Kryazhev got the Knights on the board first in the 17th minute of play when he booted the ball passed the goalkeeper to give the Knights an early 1-0 lead. Despite tough defense, the Jaspers answered back with a goal in the 32nd minute to knot the game at 1-1 going into the half.
Looking to keep the momentum going, Kryazhev struck again early in the second half for his second goal of the night to regain FDU's lead bringing the score to 2-1. Manhattan found the net though to tie it once again at 2-2 with 27 minutes left to play.
FDU capitalized on a chance to score with the help of a free kick. Nishide connected with Tima in the box who headed the ball to the back of the net to give FDU the lead and ultimately come away with a 3-2 victory.
Goalkeeper
Spencer King registered his 200th career save in the match.
"It was a great way to start the season for our guys," said Highcock on his first win in charge. "We have put a lot of time and effort into pre-season and it's great to see what we have worked on coming out on gameday. We played some great soccer at times and it was a great game for the fans to watch. I want to say a huge 'thank you' to all the players, coaching staff, and support staff for a memorable evening. GO KNIGHTS!"
WHAT'S NEXT
The FDU Knights will return to action on their home turf at University Stadium in Teaneck, N.J. to face Fairfield on Monday, August 26 at 7 p.m. Fans can stream all of the action on NEC Front Row.
Follow the Knights on Instagram and X @FDUKnightsMSOC
