Box Score

ROCHESTER, NY – First year head coach Matt Tantalo had a successful coaching debut as the Golden Flyers knocked off Morrisville State 1-0 on Friday, with a goal from senior Lucas Bennett.  The Mustangs, a formidable opponent, have appeared in the NCAA Tournament each of the past two seasons.  A year ago, Morrisville fell to the eventual champion Amherst College, 2-0 in the second round of the NCAA Tournament.

With the win, Nazareth moves to 1-0 on the year, while Morrisville falls to 0-1.  Nazareth picks up its first victory since since October 25^th, 2014 when it beat Elmira, 5-1.

After controlling the majority of the first half, the home squad capitalized in the 40^th minute.  Dylan Pettit served up a ball from the right flank and Bennett converted a diving header to the far post.

Nazareth had a strong scoring opportunity in the 14^th minute as Alessio DeMichele chipped a ball in behind the defense to Ben Garcia.  Garcia ripped a shot from 25 feet that was tipped up by the keeper and then corralled for the save. 

The Golden Flyers also generated a quality scoring chance with eight minutes remaining in the first half.  Bennett slipped past the defense on a through ball, sending a shot just wide of the net.

Morrisville came out strong to begin the second stanza, missing a golden opportunity early on.  Joe Sheehan failed to put home a cross from inside the six-yard box.
 
Still looking for the equalizer in the 80^th minute, the Mustangs saw an opportunity off a corner kick hit the post before being cleared away. 

Freshman goalie Brian Wilkin earned a shutout in his first collegiate game. He made four saves.

The Mustangs held a 14-12 advantage in shots for the game.

Nazareth returns to action on Saturday, when it will host Buffalo State at 1 p.m.