Concluding a crucial weekend in Norfolk for ODU Athletics, the men’s soccer showcased their defensive prowess as they spoiled George Mason’s trip to Norfolk by a score of 1-0.
In a physical game with seven yellow cards, the Monarchs maintained their defensive shape well, preventing the Patriots from succeeding in the attacking third. This win by the Monarchs blemished Mason’s perfect record bringing them to 5-1 on the season. The match featured a combined seven yellow cards issued, the Monarchs maintained their team’s defensive shape well. They prevented the Patriots from success in the attacking third.
In the first 45 minutes of play, both teams fired off shots, the boxscore favoring the Patriots 6-3. The defense in the first half was quality but left some to be desired as it was obvious that if the home squad did not step up play a notch they would concede a goal in the final 45 minutes.
In the second half of the contest, the Monarchs prevailed on both sides of the ball. ODU’s backline and midfield defended extremely well in the second half and on the day as they gave way to only one unfruitful corner from the Patriots. Freshman midfielder Jett Aktan after a yellow card in the 73rd, was able to settle back into his role in the defense utilizing his height and physicality to bar the GMU attack. Alongside him were junior defenders Evan Watt and Teagan Dunne, who also played the full 90 on the backline they provided key on-ball defense that barred crosses into the box impeding goals-scoring opportunities.
With time winding down, both teams had chances on the attack. George Mason gained a handful of free kicks within their attacking third while the Monarchs would put together a handful of pushes facilitated by graduate forward Key White’s pace with the ball.
White’s pace would ultimately pay off in the 85th as he assisted in a Michael Eberle goal to give the Monarchs their needed advantage to go home happy. White went straight at the junior forward on the right wing as he drove toward the goal line before dishing the ball to Eberle. Eberle’s single touch scooted past the goalie and into the bottom left corner warranting the 1-0 lead and immense celebration.
Old Dominion maintained their late advantage and scored a big victory to close out their non-conference slate on their 2024 schedule.
After a challenging first half, ODU soccer coach Tenant McVea praised his team’s resilience and adjustment in their match against George Mason. Reflecting on the game, McVea shared his thoughts on the pivotal moments and the significance of the victory:
“We left a lot on the table in the first 45 minutes. We had to readjust at halftime and really proud of the guys for the change in attitude,” McVea stated. “It showed in the second half and we got our rewards. George Mason is a good side and this is a good win.”
Looking ahead to the Monarchs’ schedule, they shift their focus ahead to their toughest fixture this season. They’ll welcome No. 1 West Virginia this Saturday at ODU Soccer Complex. It will be a pivotal match as the Mountaineers stand atop the Sun Belt Conference. Kick-off is slated for 7 p.m.
