CORAOPOLIS, Pa. – An early goal from Abdul Kabbany and a strong defensive performance helped the Salem University men's soccer team secure a 1-0 victory over Trinity College of Florida on Friday afternoon at AHN Montour Junction.
The Tigers controlled much of the contest, outshooting Trinity College of Florida by a 25-6 margin while goalkeeper Gregory Lynch recorded five saves to preserve the shutout.
Salem wasted little time getting on the scoreboard, breaking through in the eighth minute. Kabbany found the back of the net at the 7:26 mark off an assist from Jesse Hospedales, giving the Tigers an early 1-0 advantage.
The Tigers continued applying offensive pressure throughout the opening half, generating nine shots and six corner kicks while limiting Trinity to just one shot. Salem carried its one-goal advantage into halftime.
Salem maintained its attacking momentum in the second half, registering 16 additional shots as the Tigers searched for an insurance goal. Kabbany led the offensive effort with seven shots, while Tommy Sowinski and Arokya Shrestha each contributed five attempts. Shrestha placed three shots on goal to lead the team.
Despite Salem's offensive dominance, Trinity remained within striking distance. Lynch delivered several important saves down the stretch, including three in the final five minutes, to keep the opposition off the scoreboard.
The Tigers finished with a 9-1 advantage in corner kicks and placed eight of their 25 shots on target. Trinity goalkeeper Ricardo Rocha recorded seven saves to keep the contest close.
Lynch played all 90 minutes in goal for Salem, earning the shutout as the Tigers secured the 1-0 victory.
