MEN’S SOCCER

Wednesday night’s battle featuring the Huntington men’s soccer team and Saint Xavier ended in a 1-1 deadlock at King Stadium. It’s both teams second tie in as many matches with HU’s first draw against Roosevelt while the Cougars played even with #3 Rio Grande.

The contest was a first on several fronts. Not only was it the first time the two programs have met, tonight also marked the first game in HU history under the lights at King Stadium.

After a scoreless first half that saw the hosts outshoot SXU 8-3, Lawson’s crew got their pay off nine minutes into the second half when Sam Dolobaipu played a ball into Higor Barbieri on the left side. After a quick dribble past a defender, he tucked it side netting for the game’s first goal and the 21st of his career in Forester green.

SXU’s equalizer came on a quick counter at the foot of Dorian Mahone ten minutes later. The sense of urgency after that was palpable for both teams with Saint Xavier firing off four shots to HU’s three in the final 25 minutes to no avail.

Dan Pellegrine got the nod in goal for HU. He finished with two saves and was credited with the tie.

“I thought tonight was a step in the right direction in our ability to link and build through the middle of the park,” said Coach Russ Lawson. “We had long stretches of the game where we were on the ball and dictating in all thirds of the field.

“In the first half I thought we created a few great chances that should have put us up at half. Saint Xavier is a strong opponent and very dynamic up top. They gave us fits, but I felt like we did a solid job defending them. We’ll learn from this game and keep pushing the needle forward.”

The Foresters (0-0-2) are back at King Stadium on Saturday to host Siena Heights at 3:00 p.m.