Box Score

NIAGARA UNIV., N.Y. – The Niagara men’s soccer team got back on the winning track by shutting out Saint Peter’s 1-0 on Friday.

“The guys battled and all you can ask for at the end of the day is that the result comes but we have to be the team that learns to dictate the play rather than react to it,” head coach Chase Brooks said after the match.  “We gave [St. Peter’s] a little too much respect and we have to do a better job of making a statement on our home field.”

The Peacocks (2-10-0, 1-3-0) matched the Purple Eagles (7-3-3, 2-1-2) shot output but Niagara was able to put more shots on-net.   The lone goal in the match came with eight seconds left in the first half.  Liam Gilbert sent the ball to Ben Thorne who beat a defender and crossed the ball to Mike Pass who converted a header from just outside the goal line.

“Liam hit a hopeful ball and kind of over hit it,” Brooks said.  “Ben Thorne ran it down and turned and whipped in a great cross and Michael Pass did a great job flashing in front of it for the header and the finish.” 

That assist was Ben Thorne’s third point in two games after returning to the lineup from an injury last Sunday.

“It’s nice having Benny back because  you know what you are going to get from Ben game in and game out; a hard worker,” Brooks said about the senior.  “He eats, sleeps, and breathes Niagara soccer and you have to have players like that in your program.”

Niagara would shut the door in the second half, allowing nine shots but goalkeeper Brett Petricek had to make just two saves.

“That is a testament to the will power and the ability of our team to battle and grind wins out,” said Brooks, “but again now it’s about taking the next step and beginning to dictate play.”

Niagara is back in action on Sunday when they host Manhattan for at noon for Senior Day.