Men’s Soccer: UVM Drops League Opener at UML

Posted on by George Commo

Courtesy Vermont Sports Information

LOWELL, Mass. – Despite winning the shots battle 15-6, Vermont could not pull off the upset at 19th-ranked UMass Lowell as the River Hawks handed the Cats a 2-0 defeat in the America East opener on Saturday night. UVM drops to 6-3 and UML improves to 6-1-2.

COACH’S QUOTE
“We played very well tonight,” head coach Rob Dow said. “Our team deserves a lot of credit for executing a good game plan. However, we didn’t finish our chances and credit to UMass Lowell for finishing their chances.”

HOW IT HAPPENED
The River Hawks drew first blood in the 10th minute. Stanley Alves marched upfield from the right side and sent a cross to the edge of the box. Renato Kauzlaric got the extra step ahead of UVM’s backline and lined the go-ahead score inside of the near post.
The Catamounts tried to find the equalizer near halftime. Justin Freitas dished a nice touch pass in front of the net for Geo Alves, who tried a quick one-timer but his shot was right in line with UML keeper Patrik Gujic (6 saves).
Early in the second half, Freitas created space for himself in front of the net and sent a strike on frame but a River Hawk defender stepped in the way and headed ball the away at the last second.
On UML’s ensuing offensive possession, Jakov Basic forced UVM goalie Aron Runarrson (2 saves) to make a diving save with a live drive from close range. On the rebound, Basic gathered the loose ball and hooked a ball towards the far post but his attempt bounced wide of the upright.
In the 57th minute, Alves eyed the tying score once again. The senior forward broke free for a quick breakaway from 20 yards out and chipped a shot over Gujic but his shot was too strong and sailed over the top right corner of the net.
UMass Lowell added the insurance goal in the 78th minute with Mayele Malango’s first goal of the year. Malango intercepted a pass by the Catamounts, then pushed forward and beat Runarsson with a low shot into the left side of the net.
WHO’S NEXT
Vermont will continue conference play at UMBC next Saturday (Sept. 29). The opening kickoff is set for 7 p.m. Free live video will be available on AmericaEast.TV.