MILLERSVILLE, Pa. - Millersville opened the season with a 1-0 victory over Salem University Thursday afternoon at home.
Millersville controlled possession for much of the first half, setting the tempo early in the season opener. The Marauders earned multiple corner kicks in the first 20 minutes, though none produced a scoring opportunity. Juan Ortiz registered the team's first shot of the game but missed high.Â
The tie was broken in the 34th minute when redshirt junior
Zander Leik set up freshman
Kayden Sowell for his first collegiate goal. Sowell's strike proved to be the only goal of the match, giving Millersville a 1–0 lead heading into halftime.
The second half saw limited action early, though Millersville earned an early corner kick. Freshman
John Fiorillo attempted his first collegiate shot but missed. Sowell had another scoring chance with an open shot, but the Tigers' goalkeeper made a low save to keep it a one goal margin.
In the 70th minute, Salem was issued a yellow card, giving Millersville a free kick. The Tigers regained possession shortly after and put a shot on goal, but redshirt freshman goalkeeper
Gavin Massimi made a strong save to keep the Marauders ahead. Massimi finished the game with four total saves, earning his first collegiate shutout and win.
Millersville returns to action on Sunday at 1 p.m. as they travel to face Ashland University.
INSIDE THE BOX SCORE
THOUGHTS FROM HEAD COACH STEVE WIDDOWSON
- What do you build on from today's game going into Sunday's match: "We can build on the fact that we found a way to win when not performing at a high level. It was very pleasing to get a shutout and to show the fight and character to get the win but we must play better moving forward. We were far too inefficient in all areas of the game and have to bring more quality to our play"
- Where are some areas that still need some growth before conference play starts: "Conference play is still a long way off but these games are important to build confidence and momentum. This team is a work in progress and with each game, we will be looking to grow and gain experience, composure, and confidence as we work towards PSAC play"
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