HEMPSTEAD, NEW YORK - Hofstra (7-4-0) continued their winning streak with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Northeastern (2-6-2) in NCAA men's soccer action on Saturday. The Pride extended their winning run to three matches while handing the Huskies their second consecutive defeat.
The match saw multiple scoring opportunities from both sides, with Hofstra's Aleksei Armas testing the goalkeeper early with a low shot in the 12th minute. The Pride's attacking pressure paid dividends as they established a 2-0 lead in the first half, while Northeastern managed to pull one back in the second period to create a tense finish.
The first half showcased Hofstra's offensive prowess, with Evangelos Chrysostomou forcing a save in the 32nd minute. Daniel Burko and Pietro Santi controlled the midfield, while Jan Ziewiec provided width on the flanks. Northeastern's Will Schmidt had a blocked shot in the 26th minute, but the Huskies struggled to maintain consistent possession against Hofstra's pressing tactics.
The second half saw increased urgency from Northeastern, with Kade Tepe recording two blocked shots in the 50th and 75th minutes. Julius RΓΌger generated multiple opportunities, including attempts in the 68th and 73rd minutes that sailed high. Hofstra's Daniel Burko remained dangerous, forcing a save in the 81st minute, while Thengill Orrason nearly extended the lead with a shot in the closing minutes.
The statistical battle reflected the match's competitive nature, with Hofstra recording 12 shot attempts to Northeastern's 11. The Pride put eight shots on target compared to the Huskies' three, while also holding a 4-2 advantage in corner kicks. Both teams maintained their discipline, with no yellow cards issued throughout the match.
Several players delivered standout performances, including Northeastern's Neil Devnani, who showed excellent vision in midfield before being substituted in the 79th minute. Hofstra's Laurie Goddard provided crucial defensive stability, while Aleksei Armas created consistent attacking threats before being withdrawn in the 58th minute. Richard Conces tested Hofstra's defense late with a low shot in the 88th minute.
Tactically, Hofstra head coach Richard Nuttall's strategy of controlling possession and pressing high proved effective, forcing Northeastern into difficult situations in their defensive third. The Huskies adjusted in the second half, with increased pressure through the wings and more direct attacking play, particularly after the introduction of fresh legs through multiple substitutions around the 80-minute mark.
This victory strengthens Hofstra's position in the conference standings, extending their winning streak to three matches. The Pride have shown remarkable consistency, following up wins against Columbia and Drexel with another strong performance. Meanwhile, Northeastern's struggles continue, as they've now gone winless in their last three matches following a draw with Harvard and losses to Stony Brook and Hofstra.
The match ultimately hinged on Hofstra's ability to capitalize on their first-half opportunities while maintaining defensive organization throughout the second period. Despite Northeastern's improved attacking display after the break, featuring attempts from Shai Saarony and Ethan Kang, the Pride's defensive unit, anchored by their experienced backline, secured the crucial three points.
Looking ahead, Hofstra will aim to extend their winning streak when they host Loyola Maryland on October 7, while Northeastern will look to regroup before facing Monmouth on October 11 in a crucial conference matchup.