QUEENS, N.Y. — Felician earned a crucial road victory over Queens (NY) on Wednesday, securing a 1-0 win in NCAA Division II competition. Bartu Yakkan's goal in the 11th minute proved decisive as the Golden Falcons held firm defensively throughout the match, improving to 8-5-3 while handing the Royals their first loss in three games.
Yakkan opened the scoring early when he converted an assist from Keiji Sugiura, giving Felician an advantage the hosts could never overcome. The goal came during a period of sustained pressure from the visitors, who controlled possession in the opening stages and forced Queens (NY) goalkeeper to remain active despite the scoreline remaining close.
Queens (NY) mounted a significant second-half offensive, outshooting Felician 11-6 on shots on goal and generating six corner kicks compared to Felician's three. The Royals' attack intensified as the match progressed, with multiple scoring opportunities going begging. Bradyn Brown, Kevin Johnson, and Tommy Wagner all tested Felician's defense with attempts that failed to find the target, while David Oprea's late effort sailed high.
Felician's goalkeeper made 11 saves to preserve the shutout, a critical performance that underscored the visitors' defensive organization. The Golden Falcons absorbed significant pressure without conceding, demonstrating the resilience needed to win on the road in conference play. Despite being outshot, Felician's discipline and positioning limited Queens (NY)'s most dangerous chances.
Yellow cards were distributed throughout the contest, with