WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
>> The Saint Francis men's soccer team continued its impressive conference run with a 2-0 road victory over the Cougars, improving to 4-0 in NEC play.
>> The Red Flash wasted no time getting on the board, striking in the opening minute from the penalty spot to take an early lead. The goal stood as the lone tally of the first half before Saint Francis added a second in the 80th minute to secure the win and their second shutout in the last three matches.
>> Alex De Nittis and Álvaro Planas each found the back of the net for their second goals of the season
TURNING POINT OF THE GAME
The tone was set almost immediately, as De Nittis converted a penalty kick in the opening minute following an early foul in the box — marking the quickest goal of the season for Saint Francis.
FLASH MOMENTS
De Nittis continued to display his offensive prowess with a powerful angled strike in the 11th minute, testing the Cougars' keeper early. Moments later, Diego Garciarena came up clutch with a diving save in the 13th minute to preserve the 1-0 advantage.
Off the bench, Carson Krushansky made an instant impact, forcing a save with a strong shot on goal just five minutes before halftime. Early in the second half, De Nittis again challenged the goalkeeper with a well-placed free kick that demanded another save.
In the 65th minute, Brandon Napoleon nearly added to the lead after a well-worked team buildup, but his shot was turned away to keep the scoreline tight
FLASH NUGGETS
The Red Flash struck early once again, as De Nittis buried a first-minute goal — following up his fifth-minute strike in the previous match for back-to-back fast starts.
Saint Francis rolled out the same starting XI for the fifth straight NEC match, showing strong chemistry and momentum.
Thiago Pires assisted on the second Red Flash goal, finished by Planas — marking Pires' first assist of the year and third point of the season.
It was a strong all-around team effort in just the second-ever meeting between Saint Francis and Chicago State, with the Red Flash now leading the series 2–0.
NEXT ON TAP
The Red Flash return home to Stokes Soccerplex for their fifth NEC matchup, hosting New Haven on Thursday, Oct. 16, at 1 p.m. in Loretto, Pa.
This marks the first-ever meeting between Saint Francis and New Haven, as the Chargers compete in their inaugural season as members of the NEC. The Red Flash will look to continue their strong conference form and make a statement on home turf.
