GAME DAY INFORMATION
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DATE: Sept, 23, 2023
TIME: 7:00 PM ET |
LOCATION: Pickering Field at the FGCU Soccer Complex
Fort Myers, Fla.
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GAME DAY LINK
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LIVE STATS
LIVE VIDEO
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THE LEAD
Stetson Men's Soccer is on the road this Saturday, September 23rd, at 7:00 PM, ready to take on Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers. The Hatters come into this matchup carrying the momentum of a two-game win streak, courtesy of the standout performances by
Andres Mata and
Luis Lara, who both netted game-winning goals against North Florida and Florida Atlantic, respectively.
INSIDE THE SERIES
The series with Florida Gulf Coast University has been a closely contested affair, with the Hatters trailing 6-9-3 in the overall series record. However, recent history tells a different story as Stetson has claimed victory in two of their last three meetings with the Eagles.
The Hatters come into this upcoming clash riding the wave of a one-game win streak, following a high-scoring 6-3 triumph over Florida Gulf Coast University on November 1, 2022, in a memorable home encounter.
Stetson's early history against the Eagles was marked by success as they won their first three meetings, including a landmark 2-1 victory in the inaugural match on October 7, 2007. However, the dynamics have shifted over the years.
Despite holding a commendable 4-3-2 record when facing FGCU on their home turf in DeLand, the Hatters will be hitting the road for this upcoming match in Fort Myers, where they have faced challenges, holding a 2-6-1 all-time record.
SCOUTING THE HATTERS (4-2-2, 1-0-0 ASUN)
The Stetson men's soccer team is heading into their upcoming matchup with an impressive 4-2-2 record, including a 1-0 start in conference play. Riding a two-game win streak, they displayed their clutch abilities with game-winning scores from Mata and Lara in recent victories against North Florida and Florida Atlantic.
Currently ranked 9th in the Atlantic by the United Soccer Coaches as of September 19th, the Hatters have been dominant at home, boasting a 3-0-1 record. Their offense has been electric, leading the ASUN in shots with 134, including 56 on goal. Moreover, they top the charts in both goals scored (18) and assists (16) in the conference.
Stetson has consistently shown their ability to take control of games, scoring first in four of their matchups. Key players like Lara and Mata are tied for second in the conference with 4 goals each, while also being tied for 3rd in total points with 9 apiece. Supporting the attack, Charles Ahl and Xavi Csato are both tied for second in the conference with 3 assists each.
What's truly impressive is the team's balanced approach. Ten different Hatters have contributed with goals this season, and another ten have recorded assists, showcasing their depth and versatility.
In goal, sophomore goalkeeper Nicolo Radaello has been a steady presence, starting all 8 games, facing 74 shots, and making 24 saves. He's played a crucial role in securing two solo shutouts and one combined shutout for the team.
SCOUTING THE EAGLES (1-2-3, 0-0-1 ASUN)
The FGCU men's soccer team is heading into the game with a record of 1-2-3. They've had a mixed start to the season, with notable losses to Kentucky and Marist, but a promising win against UAB. Their most recent match resulted in a 2-2 draw against Jacksonville, signaling their entry into conference play.
Offensively, the team has scored six goals and recorded four assists so far. They rank third in the ASUN conference in terms of shots taken, with 79 shots, 35 of which have been on target. On the defensive side, they've allowed an average of 1.5 goals per game.
Freshman midfielder Luis Lugo has been a standout player, leading the team with three goals and six points. Supporting him are Ale Rodriguez Lopez, Landon Ameres, and Shoki Yoshida, who have contributed to the team's scoring efforts. Junior forward Pau Santanach leads the team with two assists, demonstrating their playmaking abilities.
In goal, Wyatt Kistner has been a stalwart presence, starting all six games and facing 50 shots while making 11 saves.
Jesse Cormier was named the FGCU men's soccer head coach on Jan. 23, 2017 and is entering his seventh season at the helm of the program in 2023.
NEXT UP
The Hatters will return home to DeLand for an extended homestand as they host the Jacksonville Dolphins at the ATC on Saturday, Sept. 30 at 7:00 PM
