Men's Soccer Stymies USF in WCC Opener

Sept. 30, 2005

Box Score

Moraga, CA- In a high intensity West Coast Conference match-up, the Saint Mary's men's soccer team opened its conference slate with a 1-0 victory over Bay Area rival USF Friday afternoon from Saint Mary's Stadium. Newcomer Michael Clegg recorded the game-winner on a penalty kick with less than three minutes remaining. With the victory, the Gaels improve to 4-3-1 (1-0 WCC) on the year and the Dons fall to 4-3-1 (0-1 WCC) overall.

After a total of 27 fouls and seven cards between the two teams including a red card on USF, it was apparent that neither team was going to give an inch. Yet after 87 minutes of scoreless soccer, Clegg found room in the USF penalty area and was taken down from behind. The newcomer converted on the PK blasting it in the upper right corner over USF goalkeeper Geremy Uhl to hand SMC the victory.

For Clegg, it marks his seventh goal on the season and third game-winner on the year. His seven goals thus far ties last years high set by Derek Youpel.

In a defensive stalemate, the Gaels were able to hold the Dons to outside shots enabling sophomore goalkeeper Brian Mason to record his ninth career shutout and fourth on the year. His ninth career shutout moved him into sole possession of fourth place in the career annals. Mason tallied two saves on the afternoon.

Offensively the Gaels recorded 10 shots on the day, bombarding USF with seven in the first half. The Dons tallied six in each half. Clegg led the Gaels with five shots, putting three on goal.

The win in the conference opener marks the first time the Gaels have accomplished that feat since defeating No. 16-ranked Portland on the road in 1999.

Saint Mary's will continue WCC play when it travels to Santa Clara to play the No. 8-ranked Broncos. Kickoff is scheduled for Sunday, October 2 at 7 p.m. from Buck Shaw Stadium.

Schedule

GAELS IN THE PROS

CHAMPIONS

HALL OF FAME

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