March 17, 2010

ROCHESTER, NY – The University at Buffalo men's soccer team defeated the Rochester Rhinos of the United States Soccer Federation Division Two Pro League, 2-1, on Tuesday evening at the Marina Auto Stadium. Junior Mike Unwin led the Bulls' offensive attack in their first ever victory over the Rhinos with a pair of goals.

 In the 31st minute, the Bulls captured a 1-0 lead off a Rhinos' foul in the box. Junior Casey Derkacz sent a long ball up to newcomer Andy Tiedt (Akron, NY/Akron), who managed to slip behind Rochester's defense. Storming in on the breakaway, Tiedt was pulled down by a Rhinos' defender in the box to give the Bulls a penalty kick. Unwin lined up to take the kick, blasting the shot past the Rhinos' keeper for the 1-0 lead.

 

Rochester tied the contest off a combination goal in the 42nd minute to send the friendly to a 1-1 tie at the break.

 

In the second half, the Bulls scored the lone goal of the half at the 73rd minute mark to take a 2-1 lead. Unwin fired a diagonal cross from freshman Risto Latti into the net for the Buffalo lead.

 In the contest, the Rhinos outshot the Bulls, 14-8.

 

Solid defensive play and brilliant saves by sophomore Nick Fettermanand freshman Ryan Lewis stymied the Rhinos' offensive efforts. Fetterman and Lewis split time in net with Fetterman receiving the nod in net.

 

The Bulls received excellent protection from the backline of Derkacz, freshman Kyle Rogers, sophomore Tom Beckvermit and senior Steffen Thoresen. In an effort to create extra support in the back, junior Kieron Gradwell played the role of a defensive midfielder.

 

"The play of those five in front of Fetterman and Lewis, contributed to our defensive success against a team of this caliber," said head coach John Astudillo. "Solid defense and simple offense, combined for a benchmark victory for our program."

 

Continuing on their spring schedule, Buffalo will travel to Binghamton University to take on the Bearcats on Saturday, March 20 at 3:00 pm.