NEWARK, N.J. — The Rutgers-Newark men's soccer team delivered a statement victory on Homecoming Saturday, defeating No. 2 Rowan University, 4-1, at Frederick Douglass Field. With the win, the Scarlet Raiders clinched a spot in the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) playoffs.
After falling behind early, the Scarlet Raiders responded with four unanswered goals to secure the impressive victory over one of the nation's top-ranked teams.
Rowan opened the scoring in the 10th minute when Evan Vilaboy found the back of the net off an assist from Christian McGillen. Rutgers-Newark answered in the 36th minute when Erick Cortes weaved through the defense before firing a shot into the back of the net to even the score at 1-1.
Cortes struck again early in the second half to give the Scarlet Raiders the lead. Augusto Vieira sent a long pass forward that forced Rowan goalkeeper Mike Moore to come away from the net, allowing Cortes to capitalize and put Rutgers-Newark ahead, 2-1, in the 54th minute.
The Scarlet Raiders extended their advantage in the 69th minute when Zahradeen Amadou found the back of the net following a corner kick. The ball bounced off several players from both Rowan and Rutgers-Newark in the box before Amadou wa to gain control and finish the opportunity to make it 3-1.
Rutgers-Newark added its fourth goal late in the match after Rowan's Francesco Ricciardi received a red card for pushing Cortes down inside the box. Ian Brown stepped up to take the ensuing penalty kick and converted in the 83rd minute, sealing the 4-1 Homecoming victory.
Defensively, David Bejarano delivered a standout performance in goal, recording 11 saves to help the Scarlet Raiders contain Rowan's attack. Rutgers-Newark also controlled the statistical battle, outshooting the Profs 15-8, putting 12 shots on target compared to Rowan's two, and holding a 5-2 advantage in corner kicks.
The victory marked a memorable Homecoming performance for the Scarlet Raiders, who handed the nation's No. 2-ranked team just its first loss of the season while securing their place in the NJAC playoffs.
Rutgers-Newark will close out the regular season on Wednesday, October 28, when it hosts Kean University at Frederick Douglass Field. The Scarlet Raiders will look to carry their Homecoming momentum into the regular-season finale as they prepare for postseason play.
For the latest news, updates, and information on Rutgers-Newark Athletics, visit rutgersnewarkathletics.com. Fans can also stay up to date by following the Scarlet Raiders on Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube.
