Senior Chris Bilvin led the offense to 33 total shots over the two games in the Flower City Classic. The defense held the opponents to only 11.
The men’s soccer team started off the season 3-0 for the second straight year as they took first in the Flower City Classic this past weekend that they host.
The fans poured in for the yearly Fill Fauver event during Saturday’s game against Adrian College. The fans excitement created an atmosphere that could not be matched until playoff time.
“It was great to have such a big turnout Saturday night and we want to thank all the students who filled Fauver and made our home opener such a success,” head coach Chris Apple said.
In that game, UR quickly gained momentum by playing shutdown defense and providing a solid attack.
“As a team we have started off just as we hoped,” senior forward Chris Blivin said. “We have been able to get some solid early wins, but we know we can still play better.”
In the 19th minute, senior midfielder Jimmy Parrinello connected with junior midfielder Robert Eberhardt on a free kick for the first goal of the game. Eberhardt’s goal was his second of the season.
The defense, led by senior defender Misha Carrel-Thomas and junior defender Jake Cargill, continued their dominance in the second game against SUNY Oneonta, only allowing two shots on goal.
“I think our defense played exceptionally … we will continue to be competitive with anyone,” Parrinello said.
Freshman goalie Mike Moranz, who made his first start against Adrian, provided a strong backbone to the defense. He now leads the team with two saves and two shutouts.
Even early on in the season the Yellowjackets seem ed to be clicking. Upperclassmen, like Parrinello who scored the only goal in the 1-0 win against Oneonta, are providing good examples for their younger teammates.
“The team is off to a good start and we are pleased with the progress so far,” Apple said. “Our upperclassmen are setting a high standard in training and our younger guys are learning and growing every day.”
The players agree that they have something special with the team that Apple has put together.
“We are really growing and moving toward becoming that cohesive team that can win at the highest level,” Parrinello said. “The quality of our play gets better every year, and the players we have on this roster are easily the most talented I have seen in my four years.”
Manrique is a member of the class of 2012.
