Terriers Open Conference Play With Impressive Win

by Nathaniel Lowenthal

The Boston University Terriers (7-2-2) men’s soccer team began their conference schedule this season with an impressive 3-0 victory over the Stony Brook Seawolves (1-8-2). The Terriers, ranked #15 in the nation, used three first half goals and solid defense to easily defeat the Seawolves.

The first two Terrier goals were scored by senior co-captain Samuel Appiah (’10), his third and fourth goals this season, putting him in second place on the team behind junior forward Aaron O’Neal (’11). Appiah’s (’10) first goal was a strike from outside 25 yards out that was still able to beat Stony Brook goal keeper Stefan Manz. His second goal was from inside the box off a nice touch pass from O’Neal ('11).

“The first half was real good for us, we kind of put the game out of reach,” said Terriers head coach Neil Roberts. “Sammy (Appiah) is playing at a different level right now. If we can get more guys to step their game up then we can be a special team.”

BU freshman Nick Prunier (’13) picked up the third goal of the game for the Terriers off of a Michael Bustamante ('12) through ball. Prunier ('13) (’13) used his speed to get behind all of the Stony Brook defenders, and beat Manz on a 1 on 1 for his first career collegiate goal.
“Nick needed a goal and I think that will take the pressure off of him,” said Roberts.

In the second half the Seawolves subbed in goalkeeper Anthony Rogic for Manz. Rogic was able to hold the Terriers scoreless and come up with a couple of saves. The Seawolves offense, however, was never able to get going.
The Terrier defense was solid all night as they didn’t permit any Stony Brook shots on goal or corner kicks. Goalkeepers Hrafn Davidsson ('10) and Trevor McManamon ('13) combined for the shutout. Coach Roberts pulled Davidsson in the second half due to the team’s lead. “We just wanted to get some time for Trevor, I wish we could get him some more time,” Roberts said.

Roberts also gave minutes to sophomore Temi Akinsanya (’12) and redshirt freshman Peter Melhert (’13).

From the start BU was able to dominate play by again relying on aggressive soccer. The passing once again showed improvement from earlier in the season, and the defense was much better than it was in the game last Wednesday against Brown.