TEANECK, N.J. – FDU men's soccer (6-3-2, 2-0) defeated New Haven (3-2-3, 1-1) in a thrilling 1-0 victory on Thursday evening.
The Knights created several early chances, dominating possession in the first half. Despite the constant pressure, the Knights were unable to crack the scoresheet, despite several good chances.
Connor O'Reilly and Luke Ayaz each had prime opportunities in the first 45, but were unable to get scores across. An O'Reilly shot up front bounced off the crossbar, and a chip shot chance by Ayaz sailed over the net.
Despite the tough breaks, head coach Jaymee Highcock was encouraged by the team's first half play.
"The attacking football was great," said Highcock. "We played the game in [New Haven's] half, we created a lot of chances, a lot of goal-scoring opportunities.
The chances would eventually pay off for FDU in the second half. In the 82nd minute, Victor Labite sent an excellent through ball to Arnau Rabassa Guillamon at the top of the box. A stellar touch by Rabassa Guillamon set up Jaime Barbero, who launched in a goal to break a scoreless tie.
Barbero's goal was his second of the season, and makes it back-to-back games with a score for the senior.
The Knights were able to ride the momentum from the goal across the final seven minutes, walking away with yet another thrilling victory. The match marks the third time this season in which the Knights have picked up a 1-0 victory on a game-winning goal in the last ten minutes of regulation (8/24 vs. NJIT, 9/18 vs. Columbia).
"It's amazing…another great, late win," said Highcock. "It's huge for us."
FDU was helped out by a stellar performance from Matheus Franca in goal. The junior picked up two saves en route to his fourth clean sheet of the season, helping the Knights achieve victory.
The Knights return to University Stadium on Sunday, October 5 to face Chicago State. Kickoff will come at 12 p.m, with coverage available on NEC Front Row.
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Presto's Pizza is the presenting sponsor of the 2025 FDU men's soccer season
