Stetson battled back from a 1-0 halftime deficit to draw UCF 1-1 on September 22, 2026, at the Athletic Training Center in DeLand, Florida. Freshman Matthew Perez scored the equalizing goal in the second half, helping Stetson earn a result against UCF in the Knights’ first visit to DeLand since 2018.
UCF took the lead through Joey Mueller, who was assisted by Seiryu Ono. Stetson responded after halftime, taking 10 of its 13 shots in the second half before Perez scored with an assist from Junior Essengue. The draw ended Stetson’s four-match losing streak against UCF and gave the Hatters their first result in the series since 2016.
Stetson Pressures UCF After Halftime
Stetson finished with a 13-8 advantage in shots, marking the seventh consecutive match in which it outshot its opponent. Perez scored his second goal of the season and put both of his shots on frame. Essengue added one shot along with his assist, while Valentin Fontaine led Stetson with three attempts, including one on goal.
Murillo Mello played all 90 minutes in goal for Stetson and made four saves. UCF did not score after halftime as Stetson preserved the draw. The result moved Stetson to 2-5-2 overall and 1-2-0 in ASUN play, while UCF moved to 4-2-2.
Homestand Ends With a Draw
The match closed Stetson’s season-long five-match homestand. The Hatters finished that stretch with a 2-2-1 record. Stetson’s result against UCF also came during the Knights’ first trip to DeLand since 2018.
What Comes Next
Stetson is scheduled to play at North Florida on September 26, 2026. The ASUN match is set for 7 p.m. at Hodges Stadium. It will be Stetson’s next opportunity to build on its conference result against UCF.
FSB Take
Stetson answered UCF’s first-half goal with sustained pressure after the break, and Perez’s second goal of the season secured a valuable 1-1 draw. The 13-8 shot advantage extended Stetson’s streak of outshooting its opponent to seven matches, while Mello’s four saves helped preserve the result. The Hatters now turn to North Florida with a 1-2-0 ASUN record.
Source: Original report