The University of Dayton men’s soccer team finished its exhibition games and now enters the regular season with full force after its two wins over opponents, No. 25 Bradley University and the University of Detroit Mercy.
The Flyers began its season Aug. 14 in Morton, Ill., with a 3-1 win over Bradley. Senior forward Evan McCreary scored two out of the three goals for the Flyers while sophomore defender Greg Enstone scored the game-winner.
“The first two games have been awesome so far,” said junior defender John Howe. “Bradley was big for us because it was our first game, and it was on the road against a tough team. We came out with a win and then followed it with another good performance against Detroit at home. Everyone was pleased with the two games, and we expect to keep that going for the season.”
Back at home on Saturday, Aug. 18, UD shut out the Detroit Titans 2-0. Senior midfielder Daniel Berko scored the first goal for the Flyers, with the second coming on a penalty kick by Enstone.
The Titans had 10 shot attempts but the Flyers’ freshman goalkeeper Chris Froschauer did not back down and let anything by him.
“The team has experienced a great preseason, and the team chemistry is at an all-time high,” said head coach Dennis Currier. “Our biggest challenge this season will be the strength of our schedule. It stretches throughout the entire season, but our first four games will be against potential nationally ranked opponents. Coming off a poor season in 2011, we have a lot to prove.”
Currier also said the Flyers welcome many new team members this year.
“In terms of newcomers, freshman defender Christopher Lenning and graduate midfielder Eddie Jones are expected to play large roles for the Dayton Flyers,” he said. “Senior forward Evan McCreary finished the last seven games last season on a very high note. If he can remain healthy, I believe he will play a major role. Other returners who played significantly last year is John Howe, [junior defender] Jonathan Nelson, and [junior midfielder and forward] Andres Acevedo who are expected to step up this season.”
The Flyers are ready to start their regular season games with high energy after coming off of a rough season last year. The team has been picked to finish in the middle of the pack in the Atlantic 10 Conference preseason poll.
When asked what can be expected from the team this season, Howe was enthusiastic and carried a positive attitude about this upcoming season.
“We really worked on work ethic and leadership all spring to prepare for the fall,” he said. “I think we already have the talent to do well this year, and if we add in those two pieces consistently throughout the season, we can be really successful.”
Dayton will open the season with a home game Friday, Aug. 24, against the Ohio State University Buckeyes at 7 p.m. at Baujan Field. The Flyers will also host the University of Kentucky Wildcats at home on Sunday, Aug. 26, at 5 p.m.
The University of Dayton offers free admission to all men’s soccer regular season home games.
