By Olivia Parke, Staff Writer
The Susquehanna men’s soccer team was able to clinch a 3-1 victory over non-conference opponent Misericordia University on Oct. 30 in Dallas, Pa.
Freshman forward Kevin Ayoso scored two out of the three River Hawk goals and his first career goals of the season.
Freshman forward Michael Morelli assisted both of Ayoso’s goals, earning him his first assists of the season as well.
In the first nine minutes of the match, Misericordia took control as sophomore midfielder Charles Gugel put one in the back of the net for the first goal of the game.
The River Hawks were not far behind, as Ayoso scored in the 21st minute to tie up the game 1-1 before heading into halftime.
After the first half, the Cougars led the River Hawks in shots 4-2 and in corner kicks 5-3.
Susquehanna’s second goal started off of a pass from Morelli to Ayoso, finding the back of the net in the 58th minute to give the team a 2-1 lead.
“We tried a new starting lineup, so it was nice to see us moving the ball well and developing good attacking opportunities,” Ayoso said. “We worked very hard and our team showed potential to be a contender in the Landmark Conference in the upcoming season.”
Sophomore goalkeeper Kyle Speckhart earned his second win of the season after making three saves throughout the game.
The last goal of the game was scored by freshman midfielder Shayne Davies in the 90th minute to seal the 3-1 victory for the River Hawks.
Following the victory, Susquehanna fell short against Drew University on Nov. 2, losing 2-1 on their senior day and final game of the season.
The River Hawks said goodbye to their three seniors, goalkeeper Matt Ellingworth, midfielder Aly Kenawy, and forward Alex Graul.
The first goal of the game was scored by Graul off of a cross from junior forward Chris Naiman in the 29th minute.
Susquehanna led Drew in shots 4-3 and corner kicks 1-0 going into halftime.
The River Hawks gave up two fatal goals in the second half after a free-kick from Drew hit the net near post in the 58th minute.
The second goal from Drew was scored on a penalty kick taken by junior midfielder Tony Oliveira after Susquehanna was called for a handball in the box.
After the game, Ellingworth became ranked sixth all-time for Susquehanna men’s soccer after reaching a total of 235 saves in his four years playing.
“Our team was very resilient and stuck to the game plan well and we did a great job creating opportunities,” Ellingworth said. “No matter the score, our team fought until the last whistle of the game.”
