The Cabrini men’s soccer team defeated CSAC opponent Immaculata University 2-0 to end its three-game losing skid on Saturday, Oct. 8.
Goals by freshman back Christian Martin, sophomore back Brett Lockbaum and stellar play by the back four sealed the deal for the Cavs.
“The back four played very well together, starting with CJ moving to center back,” sophomore goalkeeper Eric Nowicki said.
The game’s shot totals were very lopsided in this contest. Cabrini had a total of 18 shots against the Mighty Macs while Immaculata managed just three shots against the Cavs.
“We held Immaculata to no shots on goal, which was very relaxing and less nerve-racking for me,” Nowicki said.
“I really think we were just fed up with how closely the last few games ended and wanted to prove something out there today,” Lockbaum said. “If we keep it up, things should start to shape up for the team.”
From the moment the whistle blew, it was very evident in the opening minutes that Cabrini was more determined and wanted it more than the Mighty Macs of Immaculata.
The Cavs were on the attack in the first half, ripping off 10 shots, five of which were on goal. Cabrini came out with the same type of attitude in the second half, taking eight more shots with three on goal.
In minute 38, Martin scored his first collegiate goal with a perfect pass from sophomore midfielder Taylor Scarpino.
In minute 55, the Cavs struck again. Lockbaum ripped his fourth goal of the season past Immaculata goalkeeper Chris Raudabaugh and was assisted on the goal by senior forward Eric Collins.
The back four of Cabrini came up big in the win. Seniors Anthony Girolamo and Kyle Johnson, sophomore C.J. Doherty and Martin played stellar defense on Saturday and prevented Immaculata from taking any shots on goal and really protected Nowicki.
“The defense really stepped up today and if we continue to play like we did then we can finish the season on a high point,” Doherty said.
The win evens the Cavs’ record to 6-6-1 overall and 2-2 in their conference with just 6 games remaining in the 2011 season.
Cabrini finishes the season with four away games and five of their six contests are against CSAC opponents. The Cavaliers visit Baptist Bible College on Saturday, Oct. 15. Baptist Bible currently holds a 6-5-1 record this season.
