NORTH ANDOVER, MA – The Iona University men's soccer team played to a scoreless draw against Merrimack College on Wednesday night at Martone-Mejail Field. The Gaels (2-4-6, 1-1-4 Metro) earned their fourth consecutive draw as freshman goalkeeper Adriano Sofio recorded three saves to preserve the shutout.
THE RUNDOWN
Merrimack applied early pressure before Iona registered its first shot in the 15th minute.
Freshman Matthew Benavides and freshman Ignacio Manzanares created back-to-back scoring opportunities in the 24th minute, but both attempts were stopped by Warriors goalkeeper Matteo Malaguti.
Sofio made two first-half saves to keep the contest scoreless heading into the break.
The Gaels increased their offensive pressure in the second half, recording four shots and six corner kicks.
Iona generated three shots in the final 15 minutes but was unable to break through as the match ended in a 0-0 draw.
IONA PERFORMERS
- Freshman goalkeeper Adriano Sofio recorded three saves to secure his third shutout of the season.
- Manzanares led the Gaels with two shots, including one on goal.
- Benavides registered Iona's other shot on target.
THE OPPONENT
- Matteo Malaguti recorded two saves for Merrimack.
- Akaki Gvineria led the Warriors with four shots, including two on goal.
TEAM STATS
- Merrimack held a 13-7 advantage in shots, including a 3-2 edge in shots on goal.
- The Gaels earned eight corner kicks compared to the Warriors' five.
NOTABLE NUGGETS
- Iona recorded its fourth consecutive draw.
- The Gaels earned their fourth shutout of the season and second consecutive clean sheet.
- Iona remains unbeaten in its last four Metro contests.
UP NEXT
Iona returns to Mazzella Field on Saturday, October 17, to host Fairfield in a noon Metro Conference matchup. The Homecoming contest will be broadcast on ESPN+.
