Rhode Island Stuns St. John's with Clinical First-Half Performance Rams Strike Twice in Opening 40 Minutes to Overcome Red Storm Fightback
NEW YORK, NY – Rhode Island delivered a masterclass in clinical finishing, edging past St. John's (NY) 2-1 at St. John's Stadium in a thrilling encounter that showcased the unpredictable nature of college soccer at its finest.
The Rams wasted little time establishing their intent, with Kyler Vojvodic breaking the deadlock in the 18th minute. The midfielder's composed finish capped off a fluid attacking move that caught the Red Storm defense off guard, setting the tone for what would become a captivating 90-minute battle.
St. John's response came swiftly and emphatically. Just three minutes after falling behind, Andrew Porucznik pulled the hosts level with a brilliantly crafted equalizer. The strike, assisted by both Luca Fargnoli and Jeremy Sharp, demonstrated the Red Storm's ability to create intricate passing combinations in the final third. The dual assist highlighted the team's collective approach, with both players contributing to a move that sliced through Rhode Island's defensive structure.
However, the visitors' resilience shone through as they regained their advantage before the halftime whistle. Tiago Barriguinha stepped up to restore Rhode Island's lead in the 40th minute, tucking away what would prove to be the decisive goal. The Portuguese midfielder's clinical conversion showcased the composure that has become synonymous with the Rams' attacking philosophy this season.
The second half transformed into a tactical chess match, with St. John's pressing forward in search of another equalizer while Rhode Island looked to exploit spaces on the counter-attack. The Red Storm's attacking urgency created several promising opportunities, but the Rams' defensive organization proved resolute when it mattered most.
Rhode Island's ability to absorb pressure while maintaining their structural integrity became increasingly evident as the match progressed. Their midfield trio worked tirelessly to disrupt St. John's rhythm, breaking up play and launching quick transitions that kept the home side honest defensively.
The Red Storm's creative partnership between Fargnoli and Sharp continued to pose problems throughout the contest. Their understanding and vision created multiple chances for teammates, with their earlier assist combination serving as a blueprint for St. John's attacking approach. Despite their efforts, the hosts couldn't find the breakthrough that would have salvaged a point.
Rhode Island's tactical discipline in the final third of the match demonstrated their maturity and game management skills. Rather than sitting deep and inviting pressure, they maintained their shape while looking to extend their advantage through measured attacking forays.
The victory showcased Rhode Island's ability to perform away from home against quality opposition. Their first-half performance, punctuated by two well-crafted goals, provided the foundation for success, while their second-half resilience ensured they collected all three points.
For St. John's, the defeat highlighted both their attacking creativity and defensive vulnerabilities. Porucznik's equalizer demonstrated their capacity to respond under pressure, while the assists from Fargnoli and Sharp underlined their playmaking depth. However, their inability to prevent Rhode Island's second goal ultimately cost them valuable points on home soil.
The match served as a perfect example of how individual moments can determine outcomes in college soccer, with both teams displaying the technical ability and tactical awareness that makes NCAA Division I competition so compelling.
Key Players
- Tiago Barriguinha (Rhode Island) - Hammered home the decisive goal in the 40th minute with clinical precision
- Andrew Porucznik (St. John's NY) - Converted the equalizer and led the Red Storm's attacking efforts throughout
- Luca Fargnoli (St. John's NY) - Provided creative spark in midfield with key assist and consistent playmaking