BROCKPORT, N.Y.- The College at Brockport men's soccer team looks to capture their second win of the season on Friday, as they take on the Clarkson University Golden Knights at 4 p.m. on A. Parker Huntley Jr. Field. The Golden Eagles are coming off a dominant win in their home opener, defeating Westminster College 5-0. Clarkson is currently undefeated this season, sitting at 2-0.
The History: These two teams have only faced off once in the last ten years. The last time they met was back in 2016 at the North Country Classic. Clarkson went on to win 1-0 in a hard-fought battle, despite Brockport leading 15-2 in shots. The lone goal came early in the first half, and Clarkson's goalkeeper stood tall for the entirety of the match, against the continued Golden Eagle attack.
Last Time Out: The Green and Gold's last matchup produced a shutout and five goals from five different players. It was also the second year in a row that the team has won its home opener.
Matthew Stefaniw and
Jeff Hibbard, both had a multi-point night, helping their team secure the commanding finish. Both players now lead the team in points as number one and two respectively. Brockport now currently ranks third overall in the SUNYAC in assists and goals for. Westminster's offense was totally neutralized, not registering a single shot.
Sensational Sophomore: Leading Brockport in scoring, Stefaniw is currently tied for sixth in goals, sixth in shots on goal, and seventh in points in the SUNYAC. The Rochester native had a remarkable freshman season last year finishing with 12 goals and a team leading 24 points.
Goalies: Goalkeeper
Tautis Poniskaitis started the match but split time evenly with teammate
Joseph Romano to shutout all opposing players. The stonewall effort gives Poniskaitis his first win of the season and the 11th of his career at Brockport.
Career Firsts: DJ Taylor was responsible for the game-winning goal against Westminster, his first as a Golden Eagle. Junior defenseman Brett Healy also secured his first career goal during the offensive barrage.
Scouting Clarkson: The Golden Knights are currently 2-0 with wins over Otterbein University and Springfield College. Their top scorer is senior Aiden Subra who currently has two goals this season. Goaltenders Ian Roeloffs and Noah Bell both have one start and one win a piece. Each made three saves in their appearance in net. Clarkson finished 10-6-1 in their 2018 season, losing three of their last four games.
Preseason Poll: The Golden Eagles had a very successful run in 2018, and a solid core of returning players has earned them some preseason recognition. In the NCAA Division III Top 25 preseason poll, Brockport was included with seven other schools in receiving multiple votes for the national rankings.
What to Expect: Brockport's offense is firing on all cylinders with points being contributed from eight different players and shots from 14 players. Look for the assault to continue early, as well as the defense to remain solid, thwarting all opposing attempts.
What's Next: Men's soccer will be on the road Saturday, Sept 7th as they face Elmira College at 4 p.m.
