Seton Hall men’s soccer battled the No. 18-ranked Xavier Musketeers to a 0-0 draw Saturday afternoon at home, earning the Pirates their sixth tie of the season.
The Pirates entered the matchup looking to secure their first home win of the season against an 8-0-2 Xavier team. Both teams had plenty of scoring chances, but neither could capitalize. The Pirates’ defense limited Xavier’s chances, while goalkeeper Devin Armstrong delivered key saves to keep the Musketeers off the scoreboard.
The Pirates had several first-half chances to take the lead. Freshman Tim Valentine brought energy to the attack, but SHU couldn’t capitalize on a two-on-one when Valentine’s shot went wide.
Joaquin Brizuela also tested Xavier goalkeeper Jonny Mennell, who entered the match leading the nation in save percentage at .879. Mennell made several important stops to maintain the scoreless tie.
At halftime, Xavier led 8-6 in shots, and both teams continued to rely on their defense to keep the game even.
SHU had more shots on goal in the second half. Captain Till Kauschke sent a shot just over the crossbar, while Brizuela continued to search for his first goal in a Pirates uniform. Valentine also created multiple chances but could not find the back of the net.
Armstrong and the SHU defense stood tall against Xavier’s offense as the game grew increasingly physical. The Musketeers, who have allowed just four goals this season, also held firm against the Pirates’ late pressure.
Despite chances on both ends, neither team found the back of the net, resulting in a scoreless 0-0 draw.
The draw marks another hard-fought result for SHU against a nationally ranked opponent. The Pirates continue to show their defensive strength, but converting scoring chances remains a challenge.
The Pirates will look to build on this performance when they face Georgetown on Oct. 16.
Niall Stavrvos is a writer for The Setonian’s Sports section. He can be reached at niall.stavros@student.shu.edu.
