TicketsSept. 26, 2012
CINCINNATI - The University of Cincinnati men's soccer team posted its fourth consecutive shutout with a 0-0, double-overtime draw against Cleveland State in a lightning-delayed contest on Wednesday (Sept. 26) at Gettler Stadium.
The Bearcats (4-4-2) held the advantage in shots and chances, outshooting the Vikings (4-4-1), 27-17. Cleveland State put just two shots on frame, but hit the crossbar twice and the post once.
In the first half, the Bearcats held the bulk of the chances with nine shots to CSU's four. The best chance for UC came in the 28th minute when Matt Bahner sent a cross into the box that narrowly missed the foot of reigning BIG EAST Rookie of the Week John Manga on the back post with an open goal in front.
The teams went to the half scoreless. Then came the lightning and the subsequent 42-minute delay.
Play resumed and the Bearcats looked primed to take the lead in the 52nd minute when Peter Janelli settled a pass on the left flank, cut inside the 18-yard box and curled a shot over the arms of Cleveland State keeper Brad Stuver that went just over the bar.
Shamar Shelton, a late sub, again looked primed to secure a victory for the home side in the 78th minute. He began a run along the left flank, beat a pair of defenders and split another pair in the box, finding himself alone with time in front of Stuver. His right-footed effort went high and the Bearcats were faced with overtime.
Neither squad put together very dangerous chances in the overtime periods, but CSU's Danilo Radjen's 97th-minute effort hit the crossbar and fluttered away.
The shutout was the fifth of the season for the Bearcats and the first time UC has posted four straight clean sheets since Oct. 27-Nov. 7, 2007. Cincinnati posted a 1-0 win over Villanova, 2-0 win vs. Michigan State, 1-0 win at Rutgers, and 2-0 win at Providence in the 2007 BIG EAST Tournament opener.
Goalkeeper Taylor Hafling has five shutouts and lowered his season goals against average to 0.85.
The Bearcats return to BIG EAST play on Saturday, welcoming Syracuse to Gettler Stadium. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.