MIDDLETOWN, Pa. - Penn State Harrisburg's men's soccer team used an early goal and strong defense late to secure its first victory of the season—a 1-0 shutout win over non-conference foe Susquehanna on Tuesday night, Sept. 22.
Ariel Garcia provided the game's lone goal off a pretty find from Josiah Shamberger and the back line held the River Hawks (2-5) to just one shot on goal on the night. The win was also the first in the young career of Penn State Harrisburg head coach Colby Gay.
The Lions (1-5-1) applied pressure early and were rewarded when Shamberger made a nice pass through a pair of defenders that found the foot of a driving Garcia. The latter drove towards the net and popped a ball over the head of Susquehanna goalkeeper Finn Kramer and into the back of the net to put Penn State Harrisburg on top in the 17th minute.
The best chance for the River Hawks came early in the second half when Joe Holmwood got off a shot from just right of net but goalkeeper Jimmy Shensky made a diving stop to his right to turn SU away and preserve the shutout.
NOTABLES
- The victory is first in the collegiate head coaching career of Penn State Harrisburg's Colby Gay.
- Garcia's game-winning score was his first goal of the season.
- Shamberger's helper was his first assist of the fall. He also finished with a team-high three shots.
- Shensky made one save in net to preserve the first clean sheet of the season.
- The Lions finished with an 11-5 edge in shots and a 5-1 advantage in shots on frame.
- Susquehanna held a slim 4-3 edge in corner kicks.
WHO'S NEXT?
The Lions open conference play by hosting United East foe Notre Dame (Md.) on Saturday afternoon.
STAY CONNECTED
Fans can keep up with Penn State Harrisburg Athletics all season long on Instagram, Facebook, X, and Youtube using the handle @pshbgathletics.
