MIDDLETOWN, Pa. - Penn State Harrisburg's men's soccer team kicked off the 2025 season with a 1-0 shutout victory over Fredonia State on Friday afternoon, August 29. Ricardo Bustamante's first-half goal marked the game-winner for the Lions. 


The first half began with both teams exchanging fouls, but it was Penn State Harrisburg (1-0) who capitalized on their chances. Bustamante scored the lone goal of the contest in the 33rd minute, with an assist from Aidan McWilliams, giving the Lions a 1-0 lead. Despite multiple attempts by the Blue Devils (0-1), including a header by Lee Hartke, the Penn State Harrisburg defense, led by goalkeeper Ethan Smith, maintained their advantage throughout the remainder of the opening half.


Penn State Harrisburg held its strong defensive stance in the second half, as Smith made a critical save following a shot from Hartke. Despite several offensive attempts by Bustamante and Dillon Gough, Fredonia goalkeeper Thomas McDonald consistently thwarted their efforts, saving multiple shots. The remainder of the match saw numerous fouls from both teams, keeping the second half intensely competitive, but ultimately scoreless.


NOTABLES
- Smith earned the shutout in goal for Penn State Harrisburg, recording a lone save.
- Bustamante scored the first goal of the 2025 campaign and got off two more on the day.
- McWilliams had the lone assist for the hometown Lions, the sixth of his career. 
- Fredonia's McDonald played all 90 minutes in goal for the visiting Lions, making eight saves.
- The Lions outshot FSU 12-5 overall and 9-1 in shots on goal.


WHO'S NEXT?
The Lions will close out the weekend by hosting Mount Aloysius on Sunday evening.


STAY CONNECTED
Fans can keep up with Penn State Harrisburg Athletics all season long on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and Youtube using the handle @pshbgathletics.