Men’s soccer’s woes continue; fall 3-0 to SNHU

The+New+Haven+mens+soccer+team+huddles+against+SNHU%2C+West+Haven%2C+Oct.+1%2C+2022

Photo courtesy of Tyler Rodriguez

The New Haven men’s soccer team huddles against SNHU, West Haven, Oct. 1, 2022

The New Haven men’s soccer team’s quest for their first win of the season fell short again Saturday afternoon with their 3-0 loss to Southern New Hampshire University. It was a dominant game for the Penmen who did not allow the Chargers to get anything going offensively. They were outshot 21-8 in the match, while only registering one shot on goal. New Haven now falls to 0-6-4 (0-3-3 NE10) for the season.

Starting in the net for the Chargers was freshman Ryan Lunn, making his first career start. Lunn was tested often throughout the game, tallying seven saves. He was able to keep SNHU off the board in the first half with some spectacular saves and kept up his strong performance into the second half, but was outmatched by consistent pressure from the Penmen.

After a scoreless, back-and-forth first half, SNHU came out firing early and often in the second half. Just a minute into the second half, the Penmen took a 1-0 lead on a goal by forward Philipp Hermann. They were able to keep up the pressure, firing off two shots just three minutes later with one giving them a 2-0 lead on a goal by forward Nicolas Gonzalez.

New Haven’s only shot on goal came in the 52nd minute from midfielder Dante Polletta, which was picked up by SNHU goalkeeper Preston Neal for his only save of the game. It was a frustrating game for the Chargers, who struggled to hold onto the ball and jumpstart their offense.

SNHU tacked on an insurance goal in the 72nd minute by midfielder Gabe Pinhancos to give them a three-goal lead. Following the goal, they kept the pressure up on New Haven, registering five shots in the last 18 minutes of play.

New Haven’s search for their first win will continue at Kathy Zolad Stadium for their next matchup against crosstown rival Southern Connecticut State University on Wednesday, Oct. 5. Kickoff will be at 4 p.m. as the Chargers look to put an end to their winless season. More information can be found at NewHavenChargers.com.