NEW LONDON, N.H. – The Emmanuel College men's soccer team got an early goal, a strong effort from its goalkeeper, and a late insurance tally to defeat Colby-Sawyer College, 2-0, on Saturday afternoon at Kelsey Field.
The Saints (5-5-3, 4-2-1) struck quickly. Just 6:40 into the match, sophomore defender Joao Ramos scored off a double assists from Cian Twohill and Rafael Matamoros to make it 1-0. That goal stood as the only score of the first half, as Emmanuel held its lead through a stretch of pressure from the Chargers, who earned five corner kicks and five shots before the break.
Saints rookie goalie David Derk anchored the Saints in goal, playing all 90 minutes and making four saves to earn the shutout and the win. Colby-Sawyer (4-7-2, 2-4-1) kept pushing in the second half, and Derk turned aside a late shot from Coby Youngman to preserve the lead. The Chargers also hit the woodwork in the 67th minute, which would have tied the match.
The Saints controlled the second half offensively, firing nine of their 12 shots after intermission. Luis Pimentel led the way with four shots, while Louie Miller put three on frame and kept Colby-Sawyer goalkeeper Evan Whalen busy.
Emmanuel finally added to its lead in the 79th minute. Pimentel found Jacob Beck, who finished to make it 2-0 and seal the victory.
Whalen finished with five saves for Colby-Sawyer, which outcornered Emmanuel, 9-4.
The Saints return to action on Tuesday, Oct. 13, hosting Dean for a conference match at 7:00 p.m.
