FDU Edges Columbia 1-0 on Late Ayaz Winner
TEANECK, N.J. – FDU secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Columbia on Wednesday night at FDU Soccer Field, with Luke Ayaz providing the decisive strike in the 83rd minute to break a defensive deadlock.
The breakthrough came at the 83:00 mark when Luke Ayaz found the back of the net with assistance from Eric Dlabal. The late goal proved to be the difference-maker in a tightly contested match that saw both teams battle through nearly the entire regulation time without finding the scoresheet.
Columbia dominated the possession game and created numerous chances throughout the match, earning six corner kicks compared to FDU's three. Despite the statistical advantage in set-piece opportunities, the Lions were unable to convert their chances into goals against a resilient FDU defense.
The home side's efficiency proved decisive as they managed to score with limited opportunities. FDU recorded just three shots in the match but made the most crucial one count when it mattered most. The Knights' defensive organization frustrated Columbia's attacking efforts throughout the ninety minutes.
The match saw its share of physical play, with both teams receiving multiple cautions. Columbia picked up three yellow cards while FDU accumulated four yellow cards and one red card, indicating the intensity and competitive nature of the contest. The disciplinary issues reflected the high stakes and determination from both sides.
FDU's goalkeeper came up with crucial saves when called upon, preserving the clean sheet despite Columbia's persistent attacking pressure. The Lions managed to test the keeper on several occasions but couldn't find the finishing touch needed to level the score.
The statistics tell the story of Columbia's dominance in several areas but their inability to capitalize on their advantages. The six corners to three in favor of the visitors highlighted their territorial advantage, yet FDU's defensive resilience and clinical finishing in the crucial moment secured all three points.
Luke Ayaz emerged as the hero for FDU with his late winner, demonstrating composure under pressure to slot home the game's only goal. Eric Dlabal's assist proved equally important, as his vision and execution set up the winning play that separated the two sides.
The result moves FDU forward in their campaign while Columbia will rue the missed opportunities and their inability to convert possession and set pieces into goals. The Lions showed promise in their build-up play but lacked the cutting edge in the final third that could have changed the outcome.
Both teams will look to build on different aspects of this performance in their upcoming fixtures, with FDU taking confidence from their defensive solidity and clinical finishing, while Columbia will focus on converting their dominance into goals in future matches.