LORETTO, Pa. (Nov. 14, 2014) – Top-seeded Saint Francis U men's soccer team defeated LIU Brooklyn, 1-0, in the semifinals of the Northeast Conference tournament during a cold and snowy evening at DeGol Field, advancing to their fifth NEC championship in program history.
 
"This was a gutty performance," said head coach Michael Casper. "LIU battled until the end and almost tied up the game. We have to find that second goal to put the game away and make things easier, but I am pleased with the result. We are excited that we get to play on Sunday and we know we have to be at our best to get the win. I want to thank the students and all the fans who came out tonight. We really appreciate all the support and we need you on Sunday."
 
The Red Flash (13-5-1; 6-1-0) extended their winning streak to six games, during which they have outscored their opponents 13-3. Saint Francis has now won seven straight games at home.
 
Freshman Pedro Neto (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil/Instituto Nossa Senhora Da Gloria) scored his first career goal for the Flash in the 16th minute to give the Red Flash an early one-nil lead.
 
LIU Brooklyn (5-12-0; 4-3-0) keeper Logan Keys deflected Red Flash forward Ryan Byers (Scottdale, Pa./Southmoreland)' shot, but couldn't control the rebound, which Neto found and slotted it in from close range. Neto's goal was the eventual game-winner.
 
Saint Francis U took the one-nil lead into the half after outshooting the Blackbirds seven to three despite trailing three to two in corner kicks.
 
The Red Flash outshot the Blackbirds 11-to-7 in the second half and 18-to-10 in the match. Conner Rezende (Davie, Fla. /University School at Nova Southeastern) led all players with four shots while Neto and Calvin Rezende (Davie, Fla. /University School at Nova Southeastern) recorded three a piece.
 
Red Flash keeper Andrew Garcia (Sicklerville, N.J./Timber Creek Regional) recorded four saves during his 10th shutout of the season.
 
Despite letting in the game's lone goal, Keys recorded 11 saves for LIU Brooklyn.
 
The Red Flash will play St. Francis Brooklyn in Sunday's NEC championship match.  Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. at Degol Field