SOUTH ORANGE, NEW JERSEY - Remi Agunbiade needed just 117 seconds to write the story of Akron's early dominance, slotting home a perfectly weighted through ball from Stefan Dobrijevic and Ashton Kamdem before a crowd of 1,247 at Owen T. Carroll Field. The Zips' early strike set the tone for a tense defensive battle that ultimately ended in a 1-1 draw, with Mikkel Lejbowicz equalizing for Seton Hall in the 38th minute.
The early breakthrough set the tone for what became a defensive chess match, with both teams marshaling their resources to absorb the pressure. Akron's goalkeeper made two crucial saves, while Seton Hall's defense withstood repeated Zips attacks. The statistical ledger reveals that Akron outshot Seton Hall 11-8 overall, but the Pirates held their own in shots on target, allowing only 3 of Akron's efforts to reach the goalkeeper.
As the first half wore on, Seton Hall began to establish their rhythm, with midfielder Ian McIntyre orchestrating several promising counterattacks. The Pirates' efforts were rewarded in the 38th minute when Lejbowicz finally broke through, unleashing a powerful shot that snuffed out Akron's momentum. The equalizer came off a well-worked set piece, with Seton Hall's corner kick being headed clear only to be regathered and finished clinically by Lejbowicz.
The second half saw both teams adjust their tactics, with Akron pushing for a winner and Seton Hall content to ride out the draw. The Zips dominated possession in the final 20 minutes, but Seton Hall's defense remained organized and resolute. Akron's Agunbiade continued to cause problems for the Pirates, but his teammates struggled to capitalize on his efforts. Seton Hall, meanwhile, looked to counterattack through their forwards, but Akron's defense was equal to the task.
The draw extends Seton Hall's unbeaten streak to two games, while Akron remains tied at the top of the conference standings with a current streak of one game unbeaten. For Seton Hall, the result means they remain 5-2-6 overall, with a 2-0-3 record in conference play. Akron, meanwhile, improves to 8-3-3 overall, with a 2-2-1 conference record.
The statistical ledger reveals that Akron held a significant advantage in corner kicks, earning seven opportunities to Seton Hall's three. However, it was the Pirates who were more clinical in front of goal, putting two of their eight shots on target. Akron, by contrast, managed just three shots on target from their 11 attempts. The Zips also received a yellow card, while Seton Hall received two.
For Seton Hall, the draw means they head into their next match against Lehigh with momentum on their side. The Pirates will look to build on their defensive solidity and capitalize on their scoring chances. Akron, meanwhile, will look to regroup and bounce back against Xavier, seeking to maintain their position at the top of the conference standings.
The afternoon belonged to both teams' defenses, with each side showing resilience and determination in the face of adversity. As Seton Hall looks to Lehigh next and Akron prepares for Xavier, both teams will be hoping to build on the lessons learned from this tightly contested draw.
Key Players:
Remi Agunbiade (Akron) – Slotted home the opening goal with a clinical finish, causing problems for Seton Hall's defense throughout the match.
Mikkel Lejbowicz (Seton Hall) – Equalized for the Pirates with a powerful shot, snuffing out Akron's momentum and giving his team a crucial point.
Ian McIntyre (Seton Hall) – Orchestrated several promising counterattacks with his intelligent distribution, helping to dictate Seton Hall's tempo.
Stefan Dobrijevic (Akron) – Provided the incisive through ball that led to Agunbiade's opening goal, showcasing his creative vision.