USF Men’s Soccer defeats UConn 2-1 to Open AAC Play

USF was able to come away with a 2-1 victory at home in the AAC opener against UConn to move to 5-2 on the season and an important 1-0 in the conference.

The Bulls got on the board first with a goal from junior Emilio Ycaza in the 17th minute when an uncleared ball fell to his foot and he slotted it past UConn’s goalie. USF would continue their offensive attack in the first half, holding a 7-4 shot advantage over the Huskies before halftime.

After the break, UConn was able to level the scoring at 1-all with a goal by Dayonn Harris in the 60th minute, who got past senior goalkeeper Harrison Devenish-Meares. Harrison only faced two shots on goal all night, including the goal allowed, bringing him to one save on the evening.

USF would continue to take their chances on goal, and were finally able to break through in the 81st minute off of a corner kick. Junior Avionne Flanagan served a beautiful pass from the corner to find sophomore Javain Brown, who’s shot found the back of the net to give the Bulls the game winning score. The Huskies were able to slim down the difference on shots for the night, with USF holding a slim 14-13 lead. However, the Bulls came away with a decisive 6-2 shots on goal advantage that proved to be a difference maker on the night.

The team returns to action on Tuesday, October 1st, when they take on Bob Butehorn’s former program Florida Gulf Coast at Corbett Stadium.