A dominating performance by The University of Akron men’s soccer team resulted in a 3-0 exhibition win over Kentucky at FirstEnergy Stadium – Cub Cadet Field Saturday afternoon.
Second-half goals from Saad Abdul-Salaam, Matt Foldesy and Eric Stevenson were more than enough as the Zips were rarely threatened in their second spring game of the season. In all, UA out-shot Kentucky, 21-3, and generated 12 corner kicks to UK’s one.
“I am happy with the result and progress we have made from out last game,” said Akron head coach Jared Embick. “To beat an NCAA Tournament team 3-0 shows we are on the right path. We showed more confidence and chemistry today.”
After the teams played to a scoreless first half, Akron found the net early after the break. A cross from Robbie Derschang was met by Aodhan Quinn, who saw his shot saved but only to the feet of Abdul-Salaam who tapped it in to the empty goal.
Akron came close to doubling its lead with 26 minutes left when a Quinn free kick was just kept out. Foldesy would get Akron’s second just minutes later however as he collected the ball in the 18-yard box and slotted the Wildcats’ keeper.
Freshman goalkeeper Fernando Pina, who recorded his second shutout in as many matches this spring, would not be tested until the 81st minute when he made three saves in the span of two minutes. His second was a sprawling save following a diving header from a Kentucky striker.
With 6:40 to go in the game, Brenes earned Akron a penalty kick after being fouled in the box. Quinn’s penalty hit off the post but Stevenson was there to clean it up.
Akron played well in the first half and created a number of chances but could not break through despite out-shooting the Wildcats 10-0 overall and 3-0 on goal.
The Zips will stay at home for their next exhibition match when they play host to Xavier Saturday (Apr. 13) at Noon. There will be no charge for admission.
2013 Spring Schedule
Fri., March 8, at Cleveland State, W, 1-0
Sat., April 6, vs. Kentucky, W, 3-0
Sat., April 13, vs. Xavier, Noon
Sun., April 21, at Butler, 3 p.m.
Sat., April 27, at Maryland, 2:30 p.m.
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