HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. - Hofstra (8-4-0) continued their winning ways with a 1-0 victory over Loyola Maryland (2-8-1) on Tuesday evening at Hofstra Soccer Stadium. Pablo Hempelmann-Perez's 40th-minute goal proved the difference in a tightly contested match before a crowd of 847.
The decisive moment came in the 40th minute when Hempelmann-Perez found the back of the net with a well-placed shot to the high left corner, assisted by Laurie Goddard. The goal marked Hempelmann-Perez's third of the season and maintained Hofstra's impressive offensive form.
The first half saw both teams create opportunities, with Hofstra establishing early control. Stefano Campisi tested the Loyola defense with a shot in the 3rd minute, while Evangelos Chrysostomou narrowly missed in the 8th minute. Loyola's Jack Endacott responded with a promising attempt in the 5th minute, but his effort sailed high. The Pride maintained pressure through Laurie Goddard, who struck the woodwork in the 23rd minute.
The second half featured increased intensity from Loyola Maryland as they pursued an equalizer. Tyler Tucker came close in the 54th minute with a shot that went high left, while Jack Endacott threatened again in the 55th minute. Hofstra's defense, led by Daniel Burko and Gabriel Pacheco, remained resolute throughout the final 45 minutes, successfully preserving their slim advantage.
Statistically, Hofstra demonstrated their attacking superiority, outshooting Loyola Maryland 10-5, with three shots on target compared to Loyola's two. The Pride also held the advantage in corner kicks (6-3). The physical nature of the match was evident in the card count, with Loyola receiving four yellow cards, including cautions to Tyler Flynn (32nd minute) and Curtis Wagner (67th minute).
Several players delivered standout performances. Hofstra's Laurie Goddard was particularly active in attack, recording multiple threatening attempts including his 23rd-minute effort off the crossbar. For Loyola, Matthew Takawira showed creativity in midfield before being substituted, while defender Oscar Halls demonstrated strong defensive presence despite collecting three fouls.
Tactically, Hofstra's approach focused on controlling possession and creating chances through wide areas, with Evangelos Chrysostomou and Aaron Basenach providing width. Loyola Maryland adjusted their strategy in the second half, introducing fresh legs through multiple substitutions around the 61st minute, including the withdrawal of Jack Endacott and Richie Nichols.
The victory extends Hofstra's winning streak to four matches, further solidifying their strong position in the conference standings. For Loyola Maryland, the result marks their second consecutive defeat, though their improved second-half performance showed promising signs for upcoming matches.
Both teams made significant tactical adjustments throughout the match. Hofstra's defensive organization proved crucial in the closing stages, with Samuel Francou and Thengill Orrason helping to neutralize Loyola's late pressure. The Pride's ability to manage the game after taking the lead demonstrated their growing maturity as a team.
Looking ahead, Hofstra will aim to extend their winning streak when they travel to Stony Brook for a crucial conference matchup on October 11. Loyola Maryland returns home to host Lafayette on the same day, seeking to bounce back from this narrow defeat.