DeLAND—Joseph Alamo's first career goal was a game winner for Stetson as the Hatters earned a 1-0 Labor Day win over visiting UNC Asheville at the Athletic Training Center.
A physical and foul-filled contest was decided, in part, due to cards. The Bulldogs (0-4-0) were given six cards, including a second yellow card to Devin Francis with just over 15 minutes remaining.
With Francis sent off, the Hatters (2-1-1) took advantage of having an extra man. Stetson pounded the Asheville goal with six shots over the next 11 minutes before Alamo finally found the back of the net in the 87th minute. The sophomore scored after UNCA keeper Chris Katt fell while trying to cover passes from Eyal Cohen and Luke Ferreira, who were credited with assists on the score.
The score was a relief for Stetson interim head coach Jared Vock. The Hatters manufactured several strong scoring chances, including two from point-blank range in the final seconds of the first half, but couldn't break the ice.
"It's nice that Joey scored that goal," said Vock. "He hasn't played much. The hardest thing to do in the game is score goals but we had several chances early which had to be put away. Creating opportunities is great but you want to finish them. We need to put away our chances early on."
Stetson ran out the clock from that point forward to secure the win.
The Hatters dominated play with 20 shots, limiting the Bulldogs to just 10. Stetson keeper Paul Ladwig made six saves for his second shutout of the season.
Up next for Stetson is Rhode Island on Friday at the UAB Soccer for a Cure Classic in Birmingham, Ala.
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