MIAMI SHORES, Fla. – The Embry-Riddle men's soccer team made history on Saturday evening, clinching the program's first-ever victory against Barry University with a thrilling 2-1 win. Freshman standouts
Fabian Hilpert and
Tommy Fellowes as well as graduate student
Sandro Henning played pivotal roles in the match.
From the opening whistle, the Eagles showcased an aggressive game plan, controlling possession and dictating the pace. Just five minutes into the game, Henning made his mark with the first goal.
Yali Shiray delivered a precise cross from the right corner, and Hilpert tapped it in with his right foot, finding the back of the net and putting the Eagles ahead.
ERAU did not slow down and just 20 seconds later, Henning capitalized on a mistake by the Bucs' defense. After a moment of hesitation from the Barry players, Henning skillfully found Hilpert in the box, who made a powerful shot that beat Bucs goalkeeper Linus Wirth, extending the lead to 2-0.
Barry University responded by ramping up their tempo, but Fellowes was in top form, facing intense pressure. He expertly dealt with four corner kicks and six shots on goal in the first half, making crucial saves to maintain the Eagles' advantage as the first half concluded 2-0.
As the second half commenced, the Eagles' defense was immediately tested, with Scott Barry Gasztos launching a shot that Fellowes expertly saved in the 50th minute. The backline demonstrated resilience, successfully defending six corners and six shots from the Bucs. However, a handball inside the box led to a penalty kick for Barry. Lucas Silva converted the penalty with seven minutes remaining, narrowing the score to 2-1.
Despite the late surge from the Bucs, the Eagles held their ground. Fellowes, with an impressive 11 saves—his highest of his career—proved instrumental in securing the victory. The final score was 2-1 Eagles.
The Eagles look to bring this momentum home to the ERAU Soccer Stadium next Saturday where they take on Eckerd College at 7 p.m.
The 2024 Embry-Riddle men's soccer season is presented by Radiology Associates.
