Thanks to another strong effort from sophomore goalkeeper Daniel Bell, the UB Men's soccer team shut out Hartford Saturday on the first day of the annual UB Fall Classic.
UB's defense was not to be overlooked, however, giving up just eight shots on goal with Bell recording his second shutout in as many games this season.
"I thought our defenders played a heck of a game today," said head coach John Astudillo. "Bell was right on. The back line and the goalie really deserves a lot."
The Bulls' offense came out strong and it looked like they would take an early lead. Freshman forward Lee Catchpole and sophomore mid-fielder Erik Jaanimagi ripped two consecutive shots in the first five minutes, forcing Hartford goal tender Ryan Carr to make two diving saves.
While the Bulls consistently won the ball out of the air while dominating the mid-field, and bombarded Hartford with 20 shots on goal, they were unable to find the back of the net until late in the second half.
With just under five minutes left, sophomore Brian Wilkenson struck a header to freshman Shyle Brainswaithe, who took one dribble and then slipped a strategically placed ball past the Hartford goalie.
"I think it was just about composure. I took my time, realized we had five minutes left and just placed in," said Brainswaithe about his goal after the game.
