Jay Merlo (9) just before using fancy footwork to elude a charging Oscar Palacios (15) for the game winner (photo by Mckenzie Washington).
Jay Merlo broke a scoreless tie to give the Fredonia State men's soccer team a 1-0 victory over Houghton on Day Two of the Fredonia State Soccer Classic. Teammate Matt Cullen picked the pocket of the Houghton midfielder, then made a perfect crossing pass to Merlo. Merlo juked the defender and poked the ball into the goal from about eight yards out. The score came with 17:26 left to play in the game.
The Devils stingy defense took over from there as Fredonia State evened its record at 2-2 this season.
Typical of the Blue Devils so far this fall, there were very few offensive opportunities. William Richardson did not record a save until there was 3:33 left to play in regulation. Along with Merlo, Richardson was named to the All Tournament Team after turning in a stellar performance the day before.
Both Richardson and Houghton goaltender Sam Carpenter made only two saves. Houghton (0-4) outshot the Devils 7-3, with each team collecting three shots on goal.
Buffalo State claimed the Classic title, defeating Houghton 3-1 Friday, then Mount Saint Mary 2-0 Saturday. Theo Pencic of Buff State picked up MVP honors with two goals and two assists over the weekend.
The Devils travel to Medaille on Tuesday for a 7 p.m. start.
