From NYU Athletics

Following a 0-0 tie in its home opener on Friday, the New York University men's soccer team recorded its first victory of the 2017 campaign, defeating FDU-Florham 3-1 on Sunday, September 3, in Madison, NJ. 

Following a scoreless first half, the Devils (0-2) went on top when Ricky La Stella scored on a penalty kick at 48:36.

However, 15 minutes later the Violets (1-0-1) tied the score on their first tally of the season. Maxi Rodriguez took a pass from Matteo Schlitz and put a hard shot past keeper JT Bretschneider for his first collegiate goal at 63:23.  

"It was a relief getting that first goal, especially since they were playing everyone behind the ball throughout the game," said Head Coach Kim Wyant. "In these types of game, once you get that goal they have to come out and play and things soften up a bit." 

At that point, it was NYU's returning scoring leader, Tristan Medios-Simon (8 goals, 4 assists, 20 points in 2016), who took control of the contest. First, at 70:57, he gave NYU its first lead of the young season on an unassisted breakaway goal. Then, less than a minute later (71:44), he scored on a penalty kick to secure the victory. The kick was awarded when Robert Shellow brought the ball into the box and was pulled down by a defender.

"Robert created the opportunity and then Tristan stepped up," Wyant explained. "I held Tristan out the first half and he immediately impacted the game in the second." 
 
NOTABLES:

- Grant Engel recorded three saves in net for NYU

- "Our back four of Niko Patrk, Daly Tucknott, Jake Velvel, and Luke Dunn were solid defensively in front of Grant," Wyant offered.  

- Medios-Simon took five shots in the contest, four of which were on net.

- NYU had the advantage in shots 9-7, while FDU-Florham led 6-4 on corner kicks.

"Getting our first win, especially coming from behind, shows a lot of character," Wyant explained.