The Sacred Heart University men’s soccer team is currently 4-5 this season. They kicked off their conference play on Sunday, Sept. 24 against Merrimack College with a 4-1 win.Men’s Soccer Kicks Off Conference Play
Head Coach Anthony Anzevui shared his thoughts on the season so far.
“We’ve had some solid wins against Siena, Columbia and Brown. There are definitely games we have left on the table against Holy Cross, Rider and Lehigh which we will take some important lessons from going into Conference,” said Anzevui.
The team has faced some challenges throughout the season.
“We’ve had a very busy schedule with three games in the last seven days, which has not allowed much time to practice,” said Anzevui. “It has challenged the group physically, which we feel is an experience that will prepare us well for the challenges ahead, with the schedule being the same in certain weeks, the group has already felt those demands.”
Olliver Persson, a senior, leads the team with four goals on the season.
Goalkeeper Andrew Hammersley blocks a shot for the pioneers during a game against Columbia.
Source: Instagram: @shu_msoc
The team is looking optimistic towards this season despite the challenges they’ve faced.
Source: Instagram, @shu_msoc
I have strong belief in the coaches and the team that we have as well as a good group of people both off the field and on the field, so I think that together we can hopefully create some magic,” said Persson.
The Pioneers are currently ranked second in the Northeast Conference (NEC).
“We expect to add consistency to our performances and to compete in every Conference game. We know every game will be a battle,” said Anzevui.
The team brought in 12 new players this offseason.
“We have a good balance and I think we can make a good season with our conference. Every game is a final, so we have to fight for them,” said sophomore David Garcia Gallego.
The team’s next game is against Stonehill College on Thursday, Sept. 28 at the Park Ave. field.
Sacred Heart Athletics contributed to this article.
