WEST CHESTER, Pa. - - In a matchup of regionally ranked teams according to the United Soccer Coaches, the Wilmington University men's soccer team and West Chester played to a 1-1 draw on Wednesday night at Rockwell Field.
The Wildcats (1-0-2) outshot the Rams (2-0-1), 15-8, including 8-2 in the second half, but was only able to find the frame five times and the back of the net once. The Wildcats also earned six corners in the contest. The Wildcats and Golden Rams are each ranked No. 4 in their respective regions as of yesterday's first regional poll.
Jeremie Briquet got the scoring started in the 15th minute, as the Wildcats quickly went from defense to offense on the counterattack. Malthe Hannesbo intercepted a pass in the middle of the field at the top of their 18-yard box. Briquet moved it to the left side before Troy Paul fed a streaking Briquet down the middle. Briquet beat the drawn-out goalkeeper to the ball and slid the shot into the back of the net for the 1-0 lead.
Bas Markus was called upon to make four saves by the 23rd minute, did was able to do so. But the Golden Rams got in deep off a long punt from their keeper, and Jack Dieffenderfer was able to find Maksym Komperda alone on the back post for the one-time goal in the 42nd minute to tie the game, 1-1.
The Wildcats' best chance in the second half came in the 79th minute on their sixth and final corner of the game. Yohan Kim played a ball to the back post and Jeremie Briquet headed it back towards the near post. The ball was past the keeper, but the West Chester defense cleared the ball away. Caesar Knapp's ensuing shot was blocked, and the threat was over.
Wednesday's game was pushed to a 4:45 p.m. start to try and combat the excessive heat in the area. The game was also stopped multiple times for water breaks.
Wilmington makes its home debut with their next game, as the Wildcats welcome Gannon to the WU Athletics Complex on Saturday afternoon. Gannon is ranked No. 6 in the Atlantic Region this week. The opening whistle is set for 12:00 p.m.