CINCINNATI, Ohio – Xavier University's men's soccer team delivered a stunning offensive display Saturday night at the XU Soccer Complex, routing Siena College 6-0 behind a balanced scoring attack that saw six different players find the net. The Musketeers' relentless pressure and clinical finishing left the visiting Saints overwhelmed in what became a historic victory.
The match began with Xavier asserting immediate control, pressing high and forcing Siena into defensive errors. The Musketeers' intensity set the tone for what would become a long evening for the Saints, who struggled to cope with the pace and movement of Xavier's attacking players from the opening whistle.
Xavier had to wait until the 26th minute to break the deadlock, but when the goals started flowing, they came in a torrent. Gun Ha Lee opened the scoring with a composed finish after excellent build-up play, with Nolan Brice providing the assist. Lee's strike was a reward for Xavier's patient probing and constant pressure on the Siena defense.
The floodgates truly opened just 65 seconds later when George Waites doubled Xavier's lead at the 27:08 mark. Shogo Haraikawa's creative play set up Waites, who made no mistake with his finish. The quick-fire double blow left Siena reeling and struggling to reorganize their defensive shape.
The two goals in quick succession completely changed the complexion of the match. Siena, who had been holding their shape relatively well for the first 25 minutes, suddenly found themselves chasing the game and leaving spaces that Xavier was eager to exploit. The home side's confidence grew with each passing minute, their passing becoming more intricate and their movement more fluid.
Xavier continued to dominate possession for the remainder of the first half, creating several more chances but unable to add to their tally before the break. Siena goalkeeper Aleksa Radovanovic made several important saves to keep the deficit at two goals heading into halftime, though the damage to his team's confidence was already evident.
The second half began with Xavier picking up exactly where they left off. Just 1:47 into the period, Shogo Haraikawa got on the scoresheet himself with an unassisted goal at the 46:47 mark. The Japanese midfielder's individual brilliance showcased the depth of talent in Xavier's squad, as he beat two defenders before finishing clinically to make it 3-0.
Any faint hopes of a Siena comeback were extinguished in the 53rd minute when Ely Detty made it 4-0. The goal was a thing of beauty, with Harun Bakaran and Alejandro Silvestrini combining brilliantly to set up Detty, who finished with aplomb. The intricate passing move that led to the goal demonstrated Xavier's technical superiority and tactical understanding.
Xavier showed no mercy despite their commanding lead, continuing to press forward and create chances. The home crowd was treated to exhibition soccer as the Musketeers displayed their full repertoire of skills. Siena's defense, already stretched thin, began to show signs of complete breakdown as fatigue set in.
Harun Bakaran, who had earlier provided an assist for Detty's goal, got his name on the scoresheet in the 68th minute with an unassisted effort. The goal was a reward for Bakaran's tireless running and intelligent movement throughout the match. His strike made it 5-0 and moved the match into historic territory for Xavier.
The scoring was completed in the 78th minute when Cooper Forcellini netted Xavier's sixth goal, with Gun Ha Lee providing the assist to complete a memorable individual performance. Lee's contribution of a goal and an assist exemplified Xavier's unselfish play, with players consistently looking to set up teammates even when they had scoring opportunities themselves.
The final statistics were staggering: Xavier dominated every aspect of the game, from possession to shots to corner kicks. Siena managed barely any meaningful attacks, with goalkeeper Radovanovic forced to make numerous saves to prevent an even more lopsided scoreline. The Saints' defensive unit, which had shown promise in previous matches, was completely dismantled by Xavier's movement and precision.
For Xavier, this result represents a statement of intent for their season. The variety of scorers – six different players finding the net – demonstrates the team's offensive depth and unpredictability. The Musketeers showed they can hurt opponents through individual brilliance, intricate team play, and clinical finishing.
Siena will need to quickly regroup from this devastating defeat. The manner in which they conceded goals – two in quick succession in the first half and then a steady stream throughout – suggests both tactical and mental fragility that will need addressing. The Saints' inability to stem the tide once Xavier gained momentum is concerning for their coaching staff.
This comprehensive victory showcases Xavier's potential to compete at the highest level this season. The blend of technical skill, tactical awareness, and clinical finishing displayed against Siena sends a clear message to future opponents about the challenge they will face.
Scoring Summary:
XU - Gun Ha Lee (Nolan Brice) 26:03
XU - George Waites (Shogo Haraikawa) 27:08
XU - Shogo Haraikawa (unassisted) 46:47
XU - Ely Detty (Harun Bakaran, Alejandro Silvestrini) 53:42
XU - Harun Bakaran (unassisted) 68:26
XU - Cooper Forcellini (Gun Ha Lee) 78:28