A new era for the University of New Haven men’s soccer team is off to a hot start, taking their first two games each by a score of 2-1. Coming off a season in which they finished 1-10-4, the Chargers have already surpassed their win total from the 2022 season.
First-year head coach Tom Mattera, who was formerly with the team as an assistant coach from 2010-2012, was named the 16th head coach in program history in February. Mattera’s overhaul of the roster features players coming from around the world as part of a team that looks to change the team’s outlook.
New Haven kicked off their season on the road against the University of Bridgeport, during which junior midfielder Adam Lindstrom erased a first-half deficit with his first and second goals of the young season. Just five minutes into the second half, Lindstrom was awarded a penalty shot to tie the game at one before scoring a beautiful backheel goal in the 72nd minute for the game-winner.
The Chargers were outshot 15-4 on the game, but the defense stood tall all game as graduate goalkeeper Gianluca Cerosimo tallied eight saves to keep his team ahead and deliver the first win of the season.
On Wednesday, Sept. 9, New Haven took the field at Kathy Zolad Stadium for their home opener against Molloy University, looking to build on their season-opening win.
The Chargers’ defense was strong again, holding Molloy to nine shots in the game. Sophomore goalkeeper Kyle Mather got the start facing just four shots on goal and tallied three saves.
After a scoreless first half, Lindstrom broke the tie with his third goal of the season in the 52nd minute to give the Chargers a 1-0 lead. Neither team was able to generate enough offense to deliver enough pressure to consistently stay in their offensive zone until the closing minutes when the two teams traded late goals.
Molloy midfielder Harvey Chahal broke the shutout and tied the game at one in the 81st minute. Just a minute and a half later, New Haven forward Augustus McGiff gave the Chargers the lead right back with a huge goal to take a 2-1 lead, which would stand until the final buzzer sounded and gave the team their first 2-0 start since the 2021 season.
The young season is off to a great start for the Chargers, who will go on the road to Philadelphia, Penn. for their next matchup with Jefferson University on Wednesday, Sept. 13. The game is scheduled to start at 5 p.m. as New Haven looks to continue their early success. More information can be found at newhavenchargers.com.
