From NYU Athletics

The New York University men's soccer team celebrated its home opener in style with a 3-1 win against U.S. Merchant Marine Academy on Sunday, September 3, in Newark.

The Violets got a goal 24 seconds into the run of play as Eric Smits slipped a loose ball into the box for Terra Nagai who flicked it into the back of the net with ease.  

NYU didn't hold the lead for long though, as Andrew Jung got one back for USMMA at 2:35 to even the score at 1-1. 

Smits also assisted on NYU's second goal in the eighth minute, floating a corner into the box which found an unmarked Bryce Lexow who headed it home. 

As the second half began the Violets controlled play, slowing the pace of the match and keeping the majority of possession.  

In the 61st minute, NYU won a penalty via handball to send the score up 3-1. Arkan Tahsildaroglu stepped up calmly and sunk the ball into the bottom left corner for the advantage.   

Tahsildaroglu led the team in shots with nine total in the game and the Violets out-shot the Mariners 23-6, 11-1 on goal.  

"We came out really focused, absolutely dialed down for this game, so it was a very good rebound from our disappointing performance on Friday night," said Head Coach Kim Wyant. "I thought every player that we had on the field put in a good performance."