Eighth Ranked LIU Post Strikes Early in 4-0 Win over Wilmington Men’s Soccer

Eighth Ranked LIU Post Strikes Early in 4-0 Win over Wilmington Men’s Soccer

Copyright 2016; Wilmington University. All rights reserved. Photo of Geoff Velasquez taken by Brandy Tronconi.

NEWARK, Del. - - Four first half goals were too much to overcome for the Wilmington University men's soccer team as No. 8 LIU Post remained undefeated with a 4-0 victory on Saturday afternoon at the WU Athletics Complex.

A goal in the opening minute of play put the Wildcats (6-2) on their heels in the first half, and the Pioneers (9-0) took advantage. Ranked eighth in the latest NSCAA National Poll, the Pioneers converted four of their nine shots in the first half into goals to carry them to the shutout victory.

Looking to respond after having the Pioneers knock them out of the NCAA Division II East Regional Tournament a season ago, the Wildcats aimed for the upset. But it was the Pioneers that struck in the opening minute of play to take the momentum.

A turnover in the midfield led to a LIU Post breakaway as Charlie Ledula scored just 45 seconds into the contest. The Pioneers made it a 2-0 lead in the 17th minute with a header by Joey Forgaard before adding to their lead on another goal by Ledula in the 23rd minute. Harry Pearse capped the Pioneer scoring after capitalizing on another Wilmington turnover in the midfield in the 37th minute.

The Wildcats put four shots on the board in the second half but were still out shot, 5-4, en route to being out shot, 14-7, in the game. The Wildcats did earn more corners, 4-1, in the match, but couldn't capitalize on any of their opportunities.

A tough stretch of games continues this week for the Wildcats, as they host Bridgeport on Tuesday before hosting Georgian Court on Wednesday afternoon. Tuesday matchup at the WU Athletics Complex is set for a 3:30 p.m. opening whistle.