CORAOPOLIS, Pa. — The Salem University men's soccer team closed its 2025 season with a statement victory on Thursday, defeating the top seed Bryant & Stratton–Syracuse 3–2 at AHN Montour Junction.
The Tigers (5–8–6) stormed out to a 3–0 lead in the opening nine minutes. CJ Branch led the charge with two goals, including a penalty kick in the second minute and another strike in the ninth off an assist from Caleb Christner. Book ended by the Branch goals, Gabe Morales added an unassisted goal for the Tigers in the 8th minute.
Bryant & Stratton pulled one back late in the first half and added another in the 83rd minute, but goalkeeper Jason Barrientos stood tall, recording 11 saves—including a penalty kick stop in the 70th minute—to preserve the win.
Salem's back line, anchored by Ahmad Hajiz, Valentin Fritz, and Dylan Vaughn, weathered constant pressure as the Bobcats outshot the Tigers 22–19. Giancarlo Pardo and Josue Villegas paced Salem's attack with a combined five shots on goal, while the Tigers produced four corner kicks.
Next Up. Salem is set to take on the #5 seed, the Knights of Berkeley College, on Saturday November 16th at 12:45 PM in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
