PITTSBURGH, PA – With a 3-1 victory over La Roche University, Hilbert Men's Soccer locked up a playoff spot this afternoon. Despite being outshot 10-8, a complete effort led the Hawks to their second straight key AMCC win.
HOW IT HAPPENED
In a game where he would break the program record in wins, goalkeeper
Logan Peck was called upon early and often. Peck stopped the first five shots sent his way to keep the game scoreless for the first 25 minutes.
The sixth shot of the game by La Roche would be the icebreaker in the 28th minute. Nkubas Hamis found the back of the net to give the home side the 1-0 advantage.
In the 42nd minute, the Hawks were awarded a penalty kick to try to tie the game at one.
Andrew Herstek stepped up and did just that to avoid heading into the second half down a goal.
With the score tied, and a playoff spot within reach, the second half of this game became the most important one of the season.
Hilbert took control of the game in the 55th minute when
Carter Burke set up
Jason Vullo for the 2-1 lead. Vullo's eight of the season, and fourth in the last two games would stand as the winner for the Hawks in the playoff-clinching effort.
Once the team got the lead, Peck was not letting it go. Three more late saves by the senior goalkeeper, as well as an own goal by La Roche in the 89th minute, secured the 3-1 win for Hilbert.
GAME NOTES
- Peck is now the all-time leader in wins.
- Vullo continues his scoring surge.
- Herstek added another penalty kick goal.
UP NEXT
The Hawks head back home for their final regular season contest of the year on Tuesday. Penn State Behrend comes into town for a 3 PM kickoff.
