University of Connecticut Athletics
University of Connecticut
6-3-0, 2-1-0
Villanova
1-4-3, 1-2-0
MSOC Edges out Villanova
9/30/2023 12:17:00 AM | Men's Soccer
STORRS, Conn. – The UConn men's soccer team shutout the Villanova Wildcats, 1-0 on Friday night. Freshman defender Kieran Chandler scored his first goal as a Husky and what would prove to be the game winner.
The first half saw plenty of chances for both teams as the Huskies and Wildcats each had 10 shots in the first 45 minutes.
UConn took the lead right before the half as the Huskies had a fortunate deflection fall their way. It all started with Chandler making a great hustle play forcing the Wildcat defender to attempt to clear the ball away from the Villanova 18 yard box. The Connecticut native managed to deflect the attempted clearance of the ball into the back of the net, giving UConn the lead for good. "It all worked out in the end", said Chandler. "It wasn't the prettiest goal but, as long as it hit the back of the net it's a goal."
UConn bunkered down in the second half limiting Villanova to one shot on goal. Sophomore goalkeeper Jayden Hibbert had a game high five saves for the second time in this season (Yale 9/8).
"I thought our work rate was great", said head coach Chris Gbandi. "We have been talking a lot about being more solid defensively, and I thought the guys did a great job blocking shots and Jayden made some great saves for us tonight. Overall, I thought the work rate was great and the defensive effort was even better."
Up Next:
UConn returns to action on Tuesday, October 3rd as they welcome the No. 9 ranked Vermont Catamounts to Storrs. Kickoff is set for 7:00pm. Tickets are available HERE.
Team Stats
Kieran Chandler (1)
GOAL by UConn Chandler, Kieran.
43:59
