Box Score St. Louis, Mo., October 15, 2021 – In a battle of two top-ten nationally ranked teams, the No. 9 Washington University in St. Louis men's soccer team was edged in a close 2-1 contest on Friday evening at Francis Field.
The Bears suffer their first loss at home this season and move to 7-2-1 (1-1-1, UAA), while NYU improves to 9-2-1 (3-0, UAA) on the year.
NYU threatened early and often in the opening stages of the game, but the Bears' defense did a great job of holding the Violets off.
Matt Martin made multiple crucial saves to keep the contest scoreless early on.
NYU found the back of the net and struck first with a goal in the 33rd minute and the Violets took their 1-0 lead heading into halftime.
WashU had four shot attempts in the first half with Owen Culver posting three shots, but the Bears were unable to even the match.
In the second half, the contest continued to remain physical between both sides, as the Bears looked to gain momentum.
However, NYU added another goal with a score from the top of the box in the 64th minute for a 2-0 edge.
With under 10 minutes remaining, WashU continued to fight and cut into the lead with a goal in the 84th minute.
Armando Sanchez-Conde netted his third goal of the season off a goal scored in the box on a put-back shot attempt from a free kick.
Trying to find the equalizer, the Bears stayed on the attack and made one final push down the field in the closing minutes, but came away empty-handed, as the possession was re-gained by NYU.
WashU finished with eight shots in the game, while NYU tallied 14. The Violets also held an advantage in corner kicks at 9-4.
Owen Culver led the Bears' attack with a team-best four shots throughout the game. Julian Gancman registered two shots in the loss.
Despite the loss, Matt Martin had another strong performance at goalkeeper, logging six saves.
The Bears return to action at home on Sunday for Senior Day against UAA opponent Brandeis at 1:30 p.m.
