COLLEGE PARK, Md. — The University of New Haven men's soccer team (0-2-0) suffered a narrow 3-2 defeat against #7 Maryland (2-0-0) on Monday night at Ludwig Field. The Chargers led the entire first half, but Maryland's three second-half goals secured the victory. This marked the New Haven men's soccer programs first game against a nationally ranked opponent in their Division I history.
New Haven took an early lead as
Ali Taleb (Glastonbury, Conn./Glastonbury) found the back of the net in the fifth minute, assisted by
Valerio Del Mastro (Rome, Italy/Istituto Cellini) (Rome, Italy/Istituto Cellini). Taleb's goal was his first as a Charger, highlighting the team's effective start. This early momentum set the tone for the Chargers as they capitalized on their opportunities while maintaining a defensive posture.
Garrett Smith (Gorham, Maine/Bridgton Academy), making his Division I debut, contributed significantly in goal with key saves, including a crucial stop against Franklin Affanyi in the 23rd minute.
Maryland attempted to respond with a series of offensive efforts, including multiple corner kicks and shots, but New Haven's defense held firm. The period concluded with New Haven sustaining its 1-0 advantage, setting a solid foundation for the remainder of the contest.
The second period commenced with Maryland capitalizing on an early opportunity, as Henry Bernstein found the net in the 51st minute, putting the home team ahead. Maryland extended its lead shortly after, with Dominic Ayella scoring, assisted by Dennis Kalanzi and Leon Koehl. The Chargers responded in the 56th minute when
Lorenzo Garbarino (Lavagna, Italy/Liceo Scientifico Marconi Delpino) scored, assisted by Pol Bota, leveling the match at 2-2. Like Taleb, Garbarino also netted his first goal as a Charger.
Maryland regained momentum quickly, with Leon Koehl netting a goal in the 57th minute, assisted by Rocket Ritarita, to take a 3-2 lead. Smith made key saves to keep New Haven within reach, preventing further scoring from Maryland's persistent attacks. Despite the Chargers' attempts to equalize, the period closed with Maryland maintaining its 3-2 advantage.
Smith played all 90 minutes in goal, recording six saves against 29 shots faced.
Ali Taleb (Glastonbury, Conn./Glastonbury) contributed with a goal, finding the back of the net with his only shot of the game.
Valerio Del Mastro (Rome, Italy/Istituto Cellini) added one assist to his tally, providing a key pass that led to a scoring opportunity.
Lorenzo Garbarino (Lavagna, Italy/Liceo Scientifico Marconi Delpino) also scored, converting his lone shot on target into a goal. Each of New Haven's goal scorers got their first goals as Chargers.
Up next, the Chargers will travel to face Brown University on Friday, Aug. 28, at 7 p.m. in Providence, R.I. This non-conference match up presents an opportunity for New Haven to test its skills against a formidable opponent on the road.
