BROOKLYN, N.Y. — New Haven and LIU played to a 0-0 draw Thursday night in a defensive struggle that saw both teams create chances but ultimately lack the finishing touch to break through. The Sharks, sitting at 6-2-7 on the season, controlled much of the possession against the visiting Chargers, who improved to 4-5-5 with the road point. Neither goalkeeper was seriously tested, with each side recording four saves in a match that felt more like a chess match than a soccer game.
The first half belonged almost entirely to LIU, which generated a steady stream of opportunities without converting any of them. Jack Stainrod had the home side's best early chance in the 7th minute, firing low toward the center of the goal only to see it sail wide. Londell Wheeler added two more attempts—one in the 11th minute and another in the 29th—but couldn't find the target either. Nic Robinson also tested New Haven's defense with a shot in the 32nd minute that missed left. The Chargers managed only one real opportunity in the opening 45, with Donghyeon You firing low from distance in the 19th minute.
New Haven came out with more purpose after halftime, shifting the momentum slightly in their favor. Lorenzo Garbarino had a low-center attempt in the 54th minute, while Guilherme Meira forced a response with a shot in the 77th minute. The Chargers' best chance came late when Ryan Kipness fired high in the 82nd minute, but the hosts' backline remained resolute throughout. LIU countered with efforts from Christian Blank and Francesco Chiappo in the second half, though neither troubled New Haven's goalkeeper.
Both teams had 11 and 7 shot attempts respectively, but the quality of finishing never materialized. LIU dominated the shot count and territorial advantage, yet couldn't capitalize on their superiority. New Haven's defensive organization—particularly in the second half—frustrated the home side's attacking rhythm and forced them into rushed decisions. The match featured two yellow cards: Nic Robinson received one for unsporting conduct in the 68th minute, while Mathew Salinas earned one for New Haven in the 77th minute.
The draw leaves LIU searching for answers after back-to-back wins over Central Connecticut State and Howard. The Sharks' inability to convert their chances against a struggling New Haven side suggests they may need to sharpen their attacking play heading into the final stretch of the regular season. For the Chargers, the road point represents a solid result given their recent form, though they'll want to build on this momentum rather than settle for draws.
LIU hosts Chicago State on Sunday at 1 p.m., looking to bounce back from this frustrating result. New Haven won't play again until November 6th when they travel to face Chicago State in an evening matchup. Both teams will hope their next outings produce the kind of finishing that was sorely missing Thursday night.