New Paltz, NY — The State University of New York New Paltz earned a 1-0 win over visiting Fredonia Saturday thanks to a game-winner by sophomore
Bryan Lizama on a second-half penalty kick opportunity.
Both sides were fairly matched within the first 60 minutes of play, but the Hawks stepped up their pressure in the second half utilizing their speed up front to keep the Blue Devils' backline on their heels.
Lizama worked his way into the box and was taken down as he tried to cut the ball back with the Hawks rewarded a penalty kick on the foul. Lizama stepped up to take the attempt and fired a shot top shelf with Blue Devils goalie Thomas McDonald having no chance on the attempt, pushing the Hawks ahead with 28 minutes to go in the game.
The goal ignited the hosts offensively.
Ryan Bochenski played an arching ball over the top to
Ryan Zindler who worked the outside with his speed leading to a pass centering toward
Colin Brant, but the senior couldn't get enough on it for the score. Bochenski played Zindler again over the top, resulting in an opportunity for
Alex Wyant who played a lofted ball toward the six-yard box that Fredonia cleared away from danger.
SUNY New Paltz earned a corner in the 79th minute with
Brandon Dhanoolal sending in a perfect service, finding the head of Wyant sailing in but the captain's attempt went just inches from frame to keep the score at 1-0.
However, Wyant's biggest play came in the 89th minute as Fredonia played a long throw-in toward the box that was flicked on back post. Fredrick Butler was there to get a header on frame, and he nearly started to celebrate before Wyant came in to get a foot on a clear before the entire ball crossed the goal line, preserving the shutout for his team.
The Hawks out-shot the Blue Devils, 10-3 in the game with each team earning five corners.
Matt Katz played a full 90 to earn the shutout, not needing to make a save in the match.
SUNY New Paltz improved to 7-2-2 overall and 2-1 in the SUNYAC with the victory, while Fredonia dropped to 5-3-3 and 2-1, respectively. The Hawks are back in action Wednesday, going on the road to face SUNY Morrisville for a 4 p.m. match.
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