From University of Chicago Athletics

Brenton Desai's second-half goal was the difference as the University of Chicago men's soccer team upset No. 3-ranked Brandeis University by a 1-0 score on Sunday.

With the win, the Maroons (10-5-2 overall, 4-0-2 UAA) vaulted into first place in the UAA. The team can clinch at least a share of the conference title with a win or a tie next week versus Washington University-St. Louis. The Judges (16-2-0 overall, 4-2-0 UAA) lost for only the second time this season.

Sunday was Senior Day for 10 Maroon players – Michael Choquette, Nick Codispoti, Conor Goodwin, Nick Hollenkamp, Kyle Kurfirst, Nic Lopez, Kevin Matheny, Jorge Sanchez-Cummings, Matt Vecchitto and Jake Walerius. Over the last four years, the senior class has a cumulative record of 36-22-11 (.601 winning percentage).

Brandeis held a sizable advantage in both shots (13-5) and in corner kicks (12-0) over the course of the contest. The Judges ran their offense through Tyler Savonen, who challenged the UChicago defense on multiple occasions. However, the Maroons prevented open looks by blocking shots and freshman goalkeeper Hill Bonin made two saves in his 90 minutes of action.

The home side broke through in the 76th minute thanks to some nifty passing and a highlight-reel finish. Junior midfielder Jorge Bilbaohooked up with Lopez, who then threaded a through ball to Desai. The sophomore forward struck a leaning left-footed shot from the top left of the box that eluded the goalie and snuck inside the right post.

The Maroons held strong for the final 15 minutes to improve their home record to 6-2-1 on the year. UChicago has only allowed one goal in six conference games.