The Hofstra men’s soccer team took its first loss of the season on Saturday, Sept. 11, by a score of 2-1 to Northeastern University in the opening match of Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) play at Parsons Field in Brookline, MA.

The Pride put pressure on Northeastern for the entire game and had a few close chances in the first half, putting together three shots on goal. However, Northeastern did a solid job on defense, led by their goalkeeper Colby Hegarty. Hegarty finished with four saves, including three in the first half. On the other end, Hofstra did not allow a shot on goal until the second half, and the score was tied 0-0 going into the break. 

Things got interesting when the scoreless tie was finally broken in the 67th minute when Northeastern forward Timothy Ennin got one past Hofstra’s goalkeeper Wessel Speel. Up until that point, Speel and the Pride had not allowed a single goal all season. There was still plenty of time for a comeback, but that became less likely when Northeastern forward Federico Tellez scored with 23 minutes left to play. 

Despite being down 2-0 with time running out, Hofstra refused to go down without a fight. In the 86th minute, after a corner kick, Holger Maaloe and Ryan Carmichael assisted freshman defender Mason Tatafu on the first goal of his collegiate career. This was too little too late, however, as Northeastern held on for the 2-1 victory. 

In addition to his assist, Carmichael led both sides with five shots and two on goal, but none of them found the back of the net. Off Hofstra’s bench, Lorenzo Selini finished with four shots including one on goal. In total, Hofstra finished with 15 shots and five on goal, but they were forced to settle for the lone goal despite their dominant offensive attack. Northeastern put up 14 shots and five on goal. Speel finished with two saves. 

Hofstra’s record is now 3-1, but the loss in CAA play made their conference record 0-1. They will look to get back on track Tuesday night, Sept. 14, against UAlbany in their home opener. 

Photo Courtesy of Hofstra Athletics