HENNIKER, N.H. - The New England College men's soccer team battled Lasell University to a 0-0 draw in Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) action on Saturday afternoon.
The two teams played through a scoreless opening half, with both sides creating opportunities to break the deadlock. Freshman Ethan Zuniga (Wallingford, Conn.) and senior Chase Gurtowsky (Torrington, Conn.) each fired a shot for the 'Grims, but Lasers goalkeeper Reed Brown made the saves. Freshman Carson Leibeck (Willsboro, N.Y.) also looked to put NEC on the board midway through the half, heading a shot towards the goal that was stopped by Brown. Lasell continued to pressure the NEC defense late in the opening frame, but the Pilgrims' backline blocked an attempt to keep the match scoreless at the half.
The defensive battle continued in the second half, with both teams looking for the breakthrough. Junior Levi Campbell (Goffstown, N.H.) nearly gave the 'Grims the lead late in the match, heading a shot towards the goal that was once again denied by Brown. Lasell answered with an opportunity of its own, but senior goalkeeper Matt Guzman (San Bernardino, Calif.) made the stop. NEC earned a corner in the closing seconds, but were unable to capitalize as the match ended in a 0-0 draw.
Both teams finished with 11 shots on the afternoon, while NEC held a 6-2 advantage in shots on goal. Guzman recorded one save for the 'Grims, while Brown finished with six saves for the Lasers.
The Pilgrims continue GNAC play on Tuesday when they travel north to face in-state rival Colby-Sawyer at Kelsey Soccer Field. Kickoff is set for 4:00 PM.
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