Schelb Strike Gives 10-Man Rutgers 1-0 Upset Over Penn State
PISCATAWAY, N.J. — Substitute Joschi Schelb scored a dramatic 78th-minute winner as 10-man Rutgers stunned Penn State 1-0 in a Big Ten Conference clash at Yurcak Field. The Scarlet Knights held on despite playing the final 12 minutes with a man down after Joseph Sheridan saw red for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity.
Late Drama Decides Match
The match exploded into life in the 77th minute when Rutgers defender Joseph Sheridan was shown a straight red card for a last-man foul. With the home side down to 10 men, the unexpected happened.
Just 50 seconds after the red card, Joschi Schelb — who entered at halftime — broke free and fired an unassisted right-footed strike into the high right corner at 77:53, stunning the visitors.
Evans Heroics in Goal
Rutgers goalkeeper Jonathan Evans was outstanding, making six crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet. His best saves came in the dying minutes as Penn State desperately pushed for an equalizer with their numerical advantage.
The defensive unit, with Matthew Henderson and Samuel Ovesen playing the full 90 minutes, stood firm against relentless Penn State pressure.
Physical Battle
The match was a fierce Big Ten battle with 24 fouls combined. Ben Liscum received a yellow card in the 74th minute for unsporting behavior, adding to the tension before the dramatic finale.
Key midfield performances:
- Freddie Bell - Full 90 minutes, won crucial fouls
- Caden Grabfelder - 90 minutes, had a shot on target
- Malick Daouda - Anchored midfield for entire match
- Ben Madore - 54 minutes including a blocked shot
Penn State Frustration
The Nittany Lions dominated possession and created numerous chances but could not find a way past Evans. Their best opportunities included blocked shots from Andrew Kitch, Nestor Cabrera, and Devon Stopek. Cole Cruthers effort sailed high and left, Jude Essuman shot over the bar, and Camron Boumsong late attempt went high.
Penn State goalkeeper Ciaran Dalton made just two saves as Rutgers focused on defensive solidity.
Match Statistics
Corners: Penn State 10, Rutgers 4
Saves: Evans (RU) 6, Dalton (Penn State) 2
Fouls: Rutgers 9, Penn State 15
Cards: Rutgers - 1 yellow (Liscum), 1 red (Sheridan); Penn State - None
Key Match Events
- 45 - Joschi Schelb enters as substitute
- 74 - Yellow card: Ben Liscum
- 77 - RED CARD: Joseph Sheridan
- 78 - GOAL! Joschi Schelb scores winner
The victory marks Rutgers first win over Penn State in three seasons and provides a massive boost to their conference campaign. Despite being outshot and down to 10 men, the Scarlet Knights showed incredible determination to secure all three points.