After a hard-fought contest, American University men’s soccer (3-3-2) remains undefeated at home with a 2-1 victory over the Bucknell Bisons (1-7-0) in their first game of Patriot League play for the season.
In the 14th minute of the game, Bucknell’s freshman forward Cade McGrath found the back of the net to give the Bisons an early 1-0 lead.
After 30 minutes of solid defensive play, including three saves between both teams, junior AU midfielder Evan Schweickert scored the equalizer off of an assist from senior midfielder Jack Green.
Green contributed to both of the Eagles’ goals, as he also scored the game-winning goal in the 73rd minute off of an assist from freshman midfielder Troy Elgersma.
“We found out how to take more positive risks today with more shots and crosses,” Green said. “I ran into the box, found myself wide open, and I was able to score.”
During the final 16 minutes of the game, AU consistently kept the ball on Bucknell’s side of the pitch, which relieved pressure from the Eagles’ defenders. The Eagles ultimately held Bucknell to a scoreless 76 minutes of play after their first goal.
Throughout the first half of the season, the Eagles have struggled on the road but have found ways to even out their record at home as a strong defensive squad. AU has given up 10 goals in four away games while giving up just three goals in four home games.
According to head coach Zach Samol, the Eagles’ undefeated home record is no coincidence.
“I mean, playing at home, it’s different.” Samol said. “We have a lot of students, parents, some recruits in the stands; so it makes a huge difference for the guys and it brings them more energy for sure.”
The Eagles will look to defend at their home field (2-0-2) with a win against Loyola Maryland next.
