AKRON, Ohio - St. John's (NY) (5-3-3) secured a crucial 2-1 road victory over Akron (7-3-1) on Friday evening at FirstEnergy Stadium-Cub Cadet Field, snapping the Zips' two-game winning streak in a tightly contested match.
The first half saw both teams create dangerous opportunities, with Tyler Morck testing the St. John's defense in the 8th minute with a shot that sailed high. Gabin Thomelier responded for the Red Storm in the 13th minute, also putting his attempt over the crossbar. The teams traded possession throughout the opening period, with neither able to break through despite several promising buildups.
Akron controlled much of the early tempo, earning multiple throw-ins in dangerous positions within the first 15 minutes. Matt Dreas and Remi Agunbiade provided a strong physical presence in midfield, though both were cautioned for aggressive challenges. The Zips' pressure led to a shot from Ashton Kamdem in the 26th minute that was blocked, highlighting their attacking intent.
The second half saw increased intensity from both sides. Jack Roman nearly put Akron ahead in the 47th minute with a shot that missed high, while Jose Pedro threatened in the 88th minute with an attempt that sailed wide right. St. John's found their rhythm through Andrew Porucznik, who registered multiple shots including a dangerous attempt in the 85th minute that forced a corner kick.
The statistical battle reflected the match's competitive nature. Akron recorded 11 shot attempts to St. John's 10, though the Red Storm proved more accurate with 5 shots on target compared to Akron's 3. The Zips held a slight advantage in corner kicks (6-4), while both teams' defensive discipline was tested with three yellow cards shown throughout the match.
Individual performances shaped the contest significantly. Guilherme Gomes demonstrated his offensive prowess for St. John's with multiple threatening attempts, including a powerful shot in the 69th minute. Akron's defensive unit, anchored by Daragh Reilly until his substitution in the 85th minute, worked tirelessly to contain the Red Storm's attack. Both goalkeepers were kept busy, with St. John's recording three saves and Akron's keeper making two crucial stops.
The tactical battle showcased both teams' adaptability. Akron's coach made strategic substitutions, including the removal of Remi Agunbiade and Jack Sullivan in the 65th minute to inject fresh energy into their attack. St. John's countered by adjusting their defensive shape, with Godwin Partey's physical presence in midfield earning him a yellow card in the 82nd minute for an tactical foul that halted a promising Akron build-up.
This victory continues St. John's recent momentum after a mixed start to their season, improving their road record and positioning them strongly in the conference standings. For Akron, the loss ends their two-game winning streak but showed promising signs in their offensive organization and ability to create chances against a strong defensive unit.
Looking ahead, St. John's will aim to build on this performance when they host Providence on October 11, while Akron looks to bounce back on the road against Cornell on October 7. The match served as a testament to both teams' quality and competitive spirit, with fine margins ultimately deciding the outcome in favor of the visiting Red Storm.