KEENE, N.H. — After a narrow defeat to Wesleyan last Saturday, the Amherst College men's soccer team responded with a gritty 2-1 road win over Keene State on Wednesday night.
In a game marked by momentum shifts and composed play from both sides, the Mammoths struck early with a goal just one minute into the game. Though Keene State equalized shortly after halftime, Amherst regained control mid-way through the second half and found the back of the net once more to secure a well-earned 2-1 victory.
GAME HIGHLIGHTS:
- Amherst wasted no time getting on the board, scoring in the opening minute as Phineas Lonergan converted an assist from Mohammed Nuhu to give the Mammoths a 1-0 lead. The early goal set the tone for a fast-paced first half, with both teams trading spells of possession and testing each other's back lines.
- Keene State responded just after halftime, finding the equalizer in the 47th minute to bring the game level at 1-1. But Amherst regrouped quickly. Just 10 minutes later, the Mammoths regained the lead with a finish in the 57th minute – a goal that would ultimately stand as the game-winner.
- Goalkeepers Juan Perez and Trey Sheppard each saw time between the posts, combining for a solid defensive showing that helped Amherst contain Keene State's attack and preserve the 2-1 result.
BY THE NUMBERS:
- The attacking battle was evenly matched, with Amherst narrowly outshooting Keene State 13–12.
- The Mammoths proved especially dangerous on set pieces, earning a 7–2 advantage in corner kicks.
- Defender Riley Priddy led Amherst with 3 shots (1 on target) and helped anchor the back line with some crucial defensive stops.
UP NEXT:
- With this victory, Amherst now stands at 6-2-3 overall (2-2-2 in NESCAC play).
- The Mammoths will look to carry this momentum into their next matchup against Tufts on Tuesday, October 14, in Medford, Massachusetts.