JERSEY CITY, N.J. – The New Jersey City University (NJCU) men's soccer team dropped a tightly contested match to Kean University, falling 1-0 in New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) action on Saturday, Oct. 11 at the Robert L. McNulty Memorial Soccer Field, located at the Thomas M. Gerrity Athletic Complex.

Despite the loss, the Gothic Knights (4-8-2, 1-3 NJAC) edged the Cougars (2-10-2, 1-2-1 NJAC) in total shots, 19-18, and held a 2-1 advantage in corner kicks.

However, Kean proved more clinical in front of goal, recording nine shots on target to NJCU's six. Goalkeeper Camilo Pascual Verdu turned in a strong performance between the posts, registering eight saves while playing the full 90 minutes.

Offensively, NJCU was led by freshman Augusto Vieira (Kearny, N.J./Kearny) and sophomore Max Bzuikiewicz, who combined for 12 of the team's 19 shots. Each tallied two shots on target. Along with Pascual Verdu, Vieira, Jose Orozco (Cali, Colombia/Curro Rivonia), and Tristan Bastos (Elizabeth, N.J./Elizabeth) played the full duration of the match.

Kean set the tone early, recording the first shot on goal in the fourth minute. NJCU responded quickly, with Dom Celi Jr. (Newton, N.J./Newton) firing wide in the seventh minute, sparking the team's first corner kick opportunity. Kevin Alves (Rutherford, N.J./Rutherford) followed up with a chance off the set piece, but the Cougars' defense held firm. By halftime, Kean held a slight edge in shots, 11-10.

NJCU opened the second half with intensity, as Bzuikiewicz fired high just seconds into the restart. The Gothic Knights maintained pressure with four additional attempts before the Cougars got on the board. The game's only goal came in the 60th minute when Kean was awarded a penalty kick after a foul in the box. Santi Arroyave converted the chance, giving the Cougars a 1-0 lead and shifting the momentum in their favor for the remainder of the match.

UP NEXT:
The Gothic Knights return to action on Wednesday, Oct. 15, as they host Ramapo College in NJAC play. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. at the Thomas M. Gerrity Athletic Complex.

For the latest news, updates, and information on NJCU Athletics, visit NJCUgothicknights.com and follow the Gothic Knights on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.