NEW ROCHELLE, NY — The Iona College men’s soccer team dropped a 2-0 decision to Quinnipiac University Saturday afternoon at Mazzella Field. The Gaels held a 20-10 advantage in shots in the contest, but were unable to capitalize on their opportunities.
“Sometimes soccer is unjust, and today it was with us as we were by far the better side,” said head coach Fernando Barboto. “We gave up two goals that were unforced errors that lead to the loss.”
The two teams began the contest with a scoreless first half, as Iona recorded nine shots in the first 45 minutes of play. In the 54th minute, the Bobcats jumped out to a 1-0 lead when Machel Baker scored his 10th goal of the season for the Gaels.
An own goal by the Gaels proved to be the game-winner in the 65th minute. After a Quinnipiac shot was stopped by sophomore goalkeeper Julian Petrello, the ball deflected off an Iona defender and into the net.
Iona cut the deficit in half in the 68th minute on the 10th goal of the year by senior Ignacio Maganto. Taking a feed from sophomore Alex Ramos, Maganto placed a shot into the right side of the net for his 26th career goal.
The Gaels had a golden chance to even the score in the closing seconds when freshman Marcos Nunez’s shot from close range went just high.
“I was very proud of my team today as we played very well and created double digit chances to score today,” said Barboto.
Prior to the start of the game, Iona recognized seniors Maganto, Michael Holzer, Kester Guischard, Carlos Ribeiro, Willya Mekolo and Alex Lopez.
With a MAAC Championship berth in hand, the Gaels look to increase their seeding Wednesday at Manhattan. Kickoff is set for 7:00 pm.