NIAGARA UNIV., N.Y. – The Purple Eagles (7-9-0, 5-4-0) defeated Monmouth (7-7-2, 5-4-0), 2-0, on Saturday in a rematch of last season's MAAC quarterfinal game.
Game Recap
- The Purple Eagles took a quick lead, with Gabriel Mikina scoring unassisted in the ninth minute to put NU ahead, 1-0.
- Rodrigo Almeida had a chance in the 11th minute, but his shot was saved in the bottom right of the net.
- Federico Cugge took a shot towards the top of the net late in the first half, but it was saved by the Monmouth keeper.
- The Purple Eagles led the Hawks, 1-0, at the half.
- Jelldrik Dallmann, Almeida and Josh Tufino all created opportunities for NU through the first 20 minutes of the second half, but none of their shots found the back of the net.
- In the 70th minute, Mikina netted his second goal of the game to give the Purple Eagles a 2-0 lead. He was assisted by Stephen Hasse.
- The Purple Eagles dominated the remainder of the game and shutout the Hawks, earning their second clean sheet of the season.
Eagle's Eye On
- This is the first multi-goal game of Mikina's career.
- Mikina, Almeida and Dallmann led NU in shots with four each. All three also had two shots on goal.
- Josh Savoni (5-4-0) made eight saves. This is his second shutout of the season.
Coach's Corner
- "I'm just so proud of the guys," said head coach Bill Boyle. "They worked so hard to get this clean sheet. Monmouth is very good. I'm happy for Gabriel; that was big-time, and for Josh Savoni with the clean sheet."
Up Next
- The Purple Eagles close out the regular season on Wednesday, Nov. 3 at 7:00 p.m. against crosstown rival Canisius. Niagara will celebrate Senior Day prior to the start of the game.
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