NEW LONDON, CT —
After opening their season with a draw against Suffolk on Wednesday, the #1 Amherst College men's soccer team earned their first NESCAC victory of 2025 with a decisive 2–0 win over #2 Connecticut College on Saturday afternoon at Freeman Field. The match was a highly anticipated rematch of last year's NCAA Championship Final, where Amherst edged the Camels in penalty kicks to capture the national title.
In a physical, high-stakes battle, the Mammoths showed composure and resilience, scoring in both halves to secure the road win and continue their unbeaten start to the season.
GAME HIGHLIGHTS:
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In the 26th minute, Timothy Chow slotted the ball into the back of the net from inside the 18-yard box following a strong play by Adrian Trott to advance the attack and an assist from Vincent Akanbo. The goal marked Chow's first collegiate tally and gave the Mammoths early momentum.
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The Camels had some chances of their own, but a big save by goalkeeper Trey Sheppard at the start of the second half preserved Amherst's lead.
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In the 54th minute, a handball by a Connecticut College defender awarded the Mammoths their first penalty kick of the season. Mohammed Nuhu stepped up to take it, but the Camel goalkeeper made a diving stop to deny the attempt.
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Almost immediately after, Amherst earned a corner kick, and Leo Wilensky got on the end of it at the back post to secure his first career goal for the Mammoths, doubling the lead.
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In the 81st minute, the game was called due to weather concerns. However, per NESCAC rules, the result stands.
BY THE NUMBERS:
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A lively crowd of 276 spectators filled the sidelines, eager to witness this national championship rematch.
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The game was a hard-fought, physical contest, with 9 total yellow cards issued between the two teams.
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Leo Wilensky led the Mammoths with 4 shots (1 on goal), followed by Timothy Chow with 2 shots (both on goal).
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Trey Sheppard recorded a clean sheet, making 2 key saves to help secure the Mammoths' win.
UP NEXT:
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With this win over Connecticut College, Amherst now holds a 1-0-1 overall record (1-0-0 versus NESCAC opposition).
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In their next game of the season, the Mammoths will return home to Gooding Field on Wednesday, September 10 at 7 p.m. to host Albertus Magnus College.