Virginia Downs American In Game 1 Of Maryland/adidas Classic
9/5/2003 8:00:00 AM | Men's Soccer
Sept. 5, 2003
COLLEGE PARK, Md. - In a slow start to the Maryland/adidas Classic, Virginia defeated American 1-0 at Ludwig Field Friday on freshman Adam Cristman's first career goal just more than 10 minutes into the first half.
Defense was the theme throughout most of the game as the teams combined for just nine shots on goal in support of Cavaliers goalie Ryan Best, who made three saves, and Eagle keeper Thomas Myers, who finished with five saves.
The win was the first of the season for the Cavaliers (1-2), while American dropped to 1-1-1. Cristman gathered a cross from midfielder Kirk Dinnall and fired a laser into the top shelf past Myers from about 20 yards out for the sole tally.
American had several scoring opportunities early in the second half on four consecutive corner kicks, but could not convert. Cavs midfielder Joe Vide had a chance to extend the lead with about 13 minutes remaining on a blast from 15 yards that sailed wide left. The Eagles could not mount a threat in the game's waning moments.
Junior forward Andrew Herman led the Eagles with a game-high five shots, while Dinnall paced the Cavaliers with four shots.
Both teams return to action Sunday at the Maryland/adidas Classic, when the Cavaliers take on UCLA at noon and American squares off with host Maryland in the tournament finale at 2:30 p.m.
