PISCATWAY, N.J. – The Rutgers men's soccer (1-0) defeated Providence (0-1), 1-0, in its season opener Thursday night at Yurcak Field. Dan Karsten scored the first goal of the season for Rutgers and his first as a Scarlet Knight. Â
The first half ended scoreless, but RU generated several chances, out-shooting the Friars, 6-2. Â
Karsten made the difference however, scoring the game-winner in the 46th minute on a penalty kick. Â
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Goals  Â
46'Â (RU) Dan Karsten Â
Game Notes  Â
- Karsten's goal marks the seventh of his collegiate career and first at Rutgers. He also started against Providence, signaling his 17th straight collegiate start. Â
- Head coach Jim McElderry has now won six of his last seven season openers at RU, including the last two campaigns. Â
- The Scarlet Knights dominated in almost every statistic including shots (15-5), shots on goal (7-1) and corners (7-2). Â
- Joschi Schelb led Rutgers' offense with five shots, putting two on goal. Â
- Ciaran Dalton made one save in a solid defensive performance and now sits 10th all-time with 172 career saves. Â
- Six newcomers started for RU on Thursday including two freshmen on the backline, Braxton Montgomery and Jack Andrus. In addition, four new faces subbed in. Â
Looking Ahead   Â
Rutgers will begin a four-match road stretch starting at in-state rival Seton Hall on Sunday, Aug. 24 at 8 p.m. Â
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