NEW ROCHELLE, NY - The Iona College men's soccer team wrapped up non-conference play in fine fashion by defeating Fairleigh Dickinson 3-1 Saturday afternoon at Mazzella Field. Senior Franklin Castellanos and sophomore Jannick Martens each posted multi-point efforts in the victory.

Iona gave itself an early 1-0 advantage with a tally in the eighth minute of play. Senior Samuel Adjei took a pass from freshman Alex Ramos and sent a crossing pass to the right side where Castellanos connected from five yards out for his fourth goal of the season.

In the 25th minute, the Knights evened the score at one on a goal by Manny Calixto off an assist from Christian Dietrich.  After a turnover deep in Iona territory, Dietrich found Calixto ahead, who then blasted a shot from six yards out to the top of the Iona net.

The Gaels would counter just 67 seconds with what turned to be the gamewinner.  Junior Willya Mekolo placed a throw in to Castellanos, who lifted a pass over the FDU defense.  A bobble by Knights goalkeeper Jacob Lissek would allow Martens to come in, steal the ball and chip in an uncontested shot.

Iona added an insurance goal in the 70th minute. Castellanos found a streaking Martens who put a shot towards goal that was redirected by junior Ignacio Maganto for his second goal of the season, putting the Maroon & Gold ahead 3-1.

Fairleigh Dickinson outshot Iona 12-10 in the contest, but Iona held an advantage of 5-4 on attempts on goal. The Knights also held a 5-1 edge in corner kicks. Iona goalkeeper Julian Petrello earned his third win of the season, making three stops while FDU goalies Jacob Lissek and Aleksandar Djekic each played one half of action, each recording one stop.

Iona begins MAAC play Sat. Oct. 5 in Hamden, CT against conference newcomer Quinnipiac. Kickoff is set for 3:00 pm.