Men's Soccer Draws American in Season Opener

Thursday, August 20

Washington, D.C.

1:00 PM

Rutgers

0-0-1, 0-0-0

American

0-0-1, 0-0-0

Team	1	2	Final F
Rutgers	0	0	0
American	0	0	0

Aug 20 | Men's Soccer

Box Score

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Despite controlling possession and generating several quality chances, Rutgers men's soccer (0-0-1) played American (0-0-1) to a scoreless draw on the road Thursday.

Both teams battled through the opening 45 minutes, with neither side able to find the back of the net heading into halftime.

The Eagles appeared to break through in the 70th minute, but after a VAR review, the goal was overturned and a foul was called instead.

The Scarlet Knights controlled the final minutes, generating several opportunities, including big shots from Amer Lukovic and Andrew Kitch, but ultimately couldn't find the game-winning goal.

Game Notes

Twenty Scarlet Knights saw the pitch against the Eagles, including eight players making their first appearances for Rutgers.
RU led in shots, 13-5. Lukovic paced the Scarlet Knights with four attempts, while Kitch added two.
Rutgers also held the advantage in corner kicks, 7-5.
Goalkeeper Rafael Ponce de Leon recorded his first shutout as a Scarlet Knight and the 13th of his career. He made three saves as well.
Devon Stopek and Nick Collins played all 90 minutes against American.
Erick Ruiz made his 50th career appearance for Rutgers on Thursday.
Head coach Jim McElderry is now 6-1-1 in season openers with the Scarlet Knights. Thursday's 0-0 draw marks his first tie to open a season and his 21st overall at Rutgers.

Looking Ahead

Rutgers will remain in Washington, D.C. to face No. 5 Georgetown on Sunday, Aug. 23 at 7:30 p.m.

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