BROOKLYN, NEW YORK - Francisco Tolaba needed just 40 minutes and 55 seconds to unlock Chicago St.'s defense, slotting home a Diego Colon cross to give LIU a crucial early advantage before 842 fans at LIU Soccer Stadium. The Black Knights would go on to score twice more, ultimately shutting out the Cougars 3-0 and extending their home unbeaten streak to six matches.
The early breakthrough set the tone for what became a one-way contest, with LIU dictating the pace and Chicago St. struggling to create meaningful chances. The Cougars managed just three shot attempts on target across 90 minutes, a stark contrast to LIU's five shots on goal. Tolaba's opener was quickly followed by Sam Keogan's 42nd-minute strike, assisted by Jack Stainrod, effectively ending the contest as a competitive affair.
LIU's midfield maestro, Diego Colon, orchestrated the Black Knights' attack with precision, threading passes through Chicago St.'s defense and creating multiple scoring opportunities. Colon's 17th-minute through ball nearly resulted in an early LIU goal, but the Cougars' goalkeeper made a crucial save to deny the Black Knights. The LIU offense continued to press, with Tolaba and Keogan causing problems for the Chicago St. backline.
The first half ended with LIU holding a 2-0 lead, having controlled the game's tempo and limited Chicago St. to just two shot attempts. The Cougars' inability to capitalize on their three corner kicks in the first half further highlighted their inefficiency in front of goal.
The second half saw LIU continue their dominance, with Kai Philipp adding an insurance goal in the 81st minute, assisted by Tolaba. Chicago St. struggled to mount a meaningful response, with their best chance coming in the 85th minute when a long-range shot sailed wide of the LIU goal. The Black Knights' defense, marshaled by their organized backline, remained resolute, denying the Cougars any hope of a comeback.
The statistical ledger reveals a closely contested shot count, with both teams registering nine attempts apiece. However, LIU's clinical finishing and superior shot placement told the tale, as they outshot Chicago St. 5-3 on target. The Black Knights also edged the corner-kick battle 5-3, though neither team could capitalize on their set-piece opportunities. Chicago St.'s three yellow cards, compared to LIU's two, hinted at their growing frustration as the match wore on.
The victory represents more than three points for LIU; it cements their position as a force to be reckoned with in the conference. With a 7-2-7 record overall and a 4-1-3 mark in conference play, the Black Knights are riding high after their first win in their last two matches. They now prepare to face Stonehill, looking to build on their momentum.
For Chicago St., the loss extends their winless streak to four matches, exposing the team's offensive deficiencies. The Cougars will need to regroup and address their finishing woes if they hope to turn their season around. Their next opponent will provide a stern test, as they look to snap their losing streak.
The afternoon belonged to LIU, and specifically to Francisco Tolaba, whose match-winning performance will be remembered for weeks to come. As the Black Knights look to their next challenge, their confidence will be buoyed by this convincing display against a competitive opponent.
Key Players:
Francisco Tolaba (LIU) – Scored the opening goal and assisted Kai Philipp's insurance marker, showcasing his clinical finishing and playmaking abilities.
Diego Colon (LIU) – Orchestrated LIU's attack with precise distribution and intelligent positioning, creating multiple scoring chances for his teammates.
Sam Keogan (LIU) – Doubled LIU's lead just minutes after the first goal, demonstrating his predatory instincts in front of goal.
Jack Stainrod (LIU) – Provided the assist for Sam Keogan's goal, showcasing his ability to pick out teammates in dangerous positions.