HENNIKER, N.H. - The New England College men's soccer team played the reigning 2025 Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) champions, the University of Saint Joseph (Conn.), to a 0-0 draw on Saturday afternoon at Don Melander Field, securing a point in conference play.
The Blue Jays opened the contest with a corner kick before the Pilgrims responded with a shot from senior Parker Clark (Pittsfield, N.H.), which was turned aside by USJ goalkeeper Andres Diosa. USJ generated opportunities of its own, but senior goalkeeper Matt Guzman (San Bernardino, Calif.) and the NEC defense worked to keep the visitors off the scoreboard. Sophomore Lukas McGuire (Lunenburg, Mass.) came close to breaking the deadlock with a hard shot on target, but Diosa made the save. Both teams continued to create chances as the half progressed, though neither could find the breakthrough before the break. Saint Joseph held a 12-4 advantage in shots through the opening 45 minutes, while Guzman recorded five saves compared to two for Diosa.
NEC applied early pressure after halftime, with graduate Anthony Aguiar (Gilford, N.H.) and senior Chase Gurtowsky (Torrington, Conn.) putting shots on goal that were stopped by Diosa. USJ responded with offensive pressure of its own, but Guzman continued to deny the Blue Jays' attempts. Junior Matias Zuniga (Wallingford, Conn.) looked to put the 'Grims ahead late in the half, but Diosa came up with another save to keep the match scoreless. The Blue Jays generated several opportunities during the final 15 minutes, sending multiple shots just wide of the frame, but Guzman and the Pilgrims' defense remained composed to preserve the 0-0 draw and secure the conference point.
Guzman turned in a standout performance between the posts, recording 12 saves across 90 minutes to secure the shutout. Diosa finished with four saves for Saint Joseph.
The 'Grims return to the road on Tuesday, October 13th, for a GNAC matchup against Elms College. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 PM.
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