SLU stifles UD in first loss this year
By: Kyle Janowicz – Staff Writer
After a rough beginning to the Atlantic 10 Conference schedule, the University of Dayton men’s soccer team suffered its first loss of the season, falling 3-1 at Saint Louis University Saturday, Oct. 18.
Coming off two ties against George Washington University and Fordham University, Saint Louis proved to be a more formidable opponent and Dayton’s biggest test of the year.
When asked about whether his team had lost momentum over the last few games, head coach Dennis Currier said the loss it was not due to lack of effort, but rather a continued offensive slump for the Flyers.
“We had a lot of chances and weren’t converting like we did before,” Currier said.
The Bilikens opened up the game scoring in the 29th minute on a goal by junior midfielder Kingsley Bryce, his fourth of the season. It was the first goal Dayton has allowed in the first half of a game and left UD trailing 1-0 at the half for the first time all season.
Saint Louis scored its second goal in the 65th minute on a shot by junior midfielder Raymond Lee inside the 18-yard box.
The Bilikens scored again over seven minutes later on another goal by Bryce in the 71st minute.
Currier said SLU’s counter-break helped them score easily and capitalize on goals while fewer UD defenders were able to get back.
UD scored its only goal in the 88th minute on a shot by junior forward Amass Amankona, assisted by graduate midfielder Eddie Jones.
“We allowed them to make use of their chances and we failed to capitalize on our own opportunities,” senior defender Jonathan Nelson said.
Nelson said the Flyers must take advantage of their scoring chances and maintain a deadly offensive attack like they have earlier in the season to improve from the loss.
Dayton looks to rebound in its next contest against Duquesne University at 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 25, at Baujan Field for senior night.
Nelson said it will be an interesting game since the Flyers will be facing some of their former coaches and a very aggressive soccer team that plays a direct style of soccer.
“We need to be keep tight defensively and start getting back to what we did at the start of the season,” Nelson said.