TicketsAug. 29, 2008
CINCINNATI- The University of Cincinnati men's soccer team defeated crosstown rival Xavier for the fourth straight season, winning 1-0 on Friday night (Aug. 29) at the XU Soccer Complex.
"What a great way to start the season," said head coach Hylton Dayes. "We got a win on the road, against our rival in a gritty performance by our team."
Branden Stelmak (Broadview Heights, Ohio/Brecksville-Broadview Heights) scored his first career goal in the 12th minute and the UC defense, led by UC's lone senior Brad Simpson (Novi, Mich./Novi), kept the Musketeers off the scoreboard.
Stelmak curled a 25-yarder just inside the far post after a Paul Hoste (Clinton Township, Mich./De LaSalle) pass. Hoste, a junior, made his first career start and earned his first career assist.
UC maintained its 1-0 lead into halftime, holding a five-four lead in shots, but creating the most dangerous scoring chances.
Xavier put the offensive heat on in the final 45 minutes, generating several chances deep in UC territory. A Cincinnati foul gave XU a free kick from outside the 18-yard box on the right side. Andy Dimbi's free kick was just over the head of Brandon Bucher, who was all alone in front of goal.
The second half featured physical play belying the nature of the rivalry. Six yellow cards were issued in the second stanza, including five given to the Musketeers.
Redshirt sophomore goalkeeper Matt Williams (Portland, Maine/Cheverus) made his first career start and made four saves to record his first career clean sheet.
The Bearcats are now 24-8-5 all-time against Xavier and have outscored the Musketeers 8-1 in winning the last four against their most hated rival.
"Our guys worked tremendously hard all preseason and we knew it was going to be a tough game," Dayes said. "Xavier is a quality team and we knew it would take an unbelievable effort tonight. Branden Stelmak scored a great goal and we were able to make it stand up."
The Bearcats open the regular-season home schedule against Loyola-Chicago on Monday, Sept. 1. UC and the Ramblers kick off at 2 p.m. in Gettler Stadium.