NEWARK, NJ – The Rutgers–Newark men's soccer team erased an early second-half deficit to defeat Centenary (NJ), 2–1, on Tuesday night at Frederick Douglass Field. With the victory, the Scarlet Raiders improved to 6–2–1 on the season, while Centenary dropped to 2–6.
After a scoreless opening period in which Rutgers–Newark dictated play but couldn't find the back of the net, Centenary stunned the crowd just moments into the second half. Ander Dugarte scored from deep in the 46th minute off a setup from Yalin Salinas, giving the visitors a 1–0 advantage on what proved to be their only shot of the night.
The Scarlet Raiders kept their composure and continued to press forward, eventually breaking through in the 77th minute. Freshman Aaron Ocana leveled the score with his first goal of his career off a pass from Ian Brown. Less than 10 minutes later, Erick Cortes delivered the game winner, finding the back of the net in the 86th minute after being set up by Ethan Geronimo. The goal pushes Cortes total to 11 on the season.
Rutgers–Newark dominated statistically, outshooting Centenary 23–1 and holding a 7–0 edge in corner kicks. Centenary goalkeeper Christian Ruiz made five saves in the second half to keep his side in contention, while starter Kevin Velasquez Mejia stopped two shots in the opening 45 minutes. Scarlet Raiders goalkeeper Ben Nakahara went the distance, conceding only the single goal on the Cyclones' lone attempt.
The Scarlet Raiders will look to carry the momentum of their comeback into conference play as they go on the road to face #2 Rowan on Saturday.
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