WALTHAM, Mass. - - The Wilmington University men's soccer team had everything working but the final touch, dominating Bentley but resulting in a 1-1 draw on Wednesday afternoon in its final tune-up prior to Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference play.
The Wildcats (1-2-2) outshot the Falcons (1-2-2), 23-10, including eight shots on frame, but only found the back of the net once to force the draw. They also earned more corners, 12-4, in the match.
The Falcons took advantage of an early chance to take a 1-0 lead. Trying to clear the ball out of the box after a blocked shot, the Wildcats' defense picked up a foul, giving Bentley a chance from the spot. Ronan Fitzpatrick converted the penalty kick and gave the home team a 1-0 lead 25:51 into the match.
The Wildcats turned up the pressure to start the second half, but Hedemann's chance with 38 minutes to play was saved with a diving stop and then Chavez Brooks' chance on the ensuing corner was cleared out from in front of the goal to keep the visitors off the board. Pol Romero hit the crossbar with a header in the 64th minute, again keeping the Wildcats off the board.
Wilmington broke through in the 74th minute, first winning a Bentley goal-kick. Pol Romero brought it down atop the Wildcat formation and played Ryuga Uchigashima. He found Kim inside the box on the left side, and Yohan Kim slotted the keeper low to tie the game, 1-1.
In the waning moments, Bentley had a free-kick outside the box, but the Wildcats cleared the threat away. Tajhay Williams had one final chance at the other end, as he cut the ball back to his right-foot and went near post with 15 seconds left, but Eduardo Bomfim made the stop to earn the draw, 1-1.
The Wildcats return home and start CACCC play on Sunday afternoon, as they cap a doubleheader against Caldwell at the WU Athletics Complex. The opening kick is slated for 2:30 p.m.