Wilkes Men's Soccer Blanks Marywood 2-0 in Season Opener

SCRANTON, PA - The Wilkes University men's soccer team defeated Marywood in their season opener with a score of 2-0 on Friday afternoon.

After a back and forth battle throughout the first half, the Colonels led 1-0 after a header scored by Herbert Ramirez (Highstown, NJ/Highstown) off a free kick in the final minute of the half. Wilkes recorded an additional shot during the half by Will Wagstaff (Allentown, PA/Parkland).

Dominant on the attack, Wilkes earned themselves seven corner kick attempts, while Marywood had none. In goal, Matthew Conti (Florence, NJ/Florence Township Memorial High School) played a commanding half, making two saves to hold the Pacers at bay. 

The Colonels were able to solidify their lead in the second half, with a goal by Elijah Emedoh-Kaba (Gilbertsville, PA/Boyertown Area) in the 83rd minute on a breakaway to secure the victory for Wilkes. Emedoh-Kaba's goal was assisted by Lucas Saliani (Oakland, NJ/St. Joseph Regional) on a clear from the box. 

Marywood tallied eight shots in the second half but were unable to find the back of the net as a result of Conti's efforts between the posts. Conti added five saves to his clean sheet this half, marking his first career shutout. 

Wilkes will be looking to take this momentum into their next matchup tomorrow, August 31st against Ramapo College, with kickoff set for 4 p.m.