Romain Spailier scored 33 seconds into the match, and Jacksonville University men’s soccer defeated Memphis 1-0 Tuesday night at the Billy J. Murphy Track & Soccer Complex in Memphis, Tennessee.
The victory was Jacksonville University’s first over Memphis in program history and improved the team to 4-3-2 this season. It also gave Memphis its first home loss of the season after the Tigers entered the match 2-0-1 at home.
Spailier gives Jacksonville an early lead
Dante Wright assisted on Spailier’s third goal of the season, putting Jacksonville University in front before a minute had elapsed. The assist was Wright’s third of the season and his second in as many matches. Wright also put three of his four shots on goal.
Jacksonville University recorded four shots on goal, while Memphis recorded six. Memphis increased its pressure after halftime and hit the woodwork in the 54th and 59th minutes, but the Tigers did not find an equalizer.
Havig records six saves
Simen Havig made four saves in the first half and two in the second half to finish with six saves and his second shutout of the season. Coach Simmons called Havig “the best keeper in the conference.”
“He manages the tempo of the game well, he has great communication, he’s an outstanding goalkeeper, and we’re lucky to have him,” Simmons said. Through 180 minutes against Memphis, Havig has made 10 saves without allowing a goal.
Jacksonville remains unbeaten on the road
Jacksonville University remained unbeaten in true road matches at 3-0-2. Three of the team’s four victories this season have come on the road.
Tuesday’s match was the second meeting between Jacksonville University and Memphis. The teams played to a scoreless draw the previous season in Jacksonville.
Jacksonville University continues its road stretch Tuesday, Oct. 6, at Georgia State in Atlanta. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m.
FSB Take
Jacksonville University’s first win over Memphis combined an early finish from Spailier with six saves from Havig. The result also extended Jacksonville University’s unbeaten true-road record to 3-0-2 before its next road match at Georgia State.
Source: Original report