For only the second time in its 44-year history, the John Carroll men's soccer team went through the first nine matches of a season without a loss.
The 2017 edition of the Blue Streaks will still be chasing the 1991 edition that won its first 15 out of the gate, but for at least a few moments will get to appreciate the significance of starting 8-0-1.
The latest conquest occurred Wednesday evening, as the #6 ranked John Carroll side dominated Fredonia State throughout the second half for a 2-0 victory at Don Shula Stadium. This was the final non-conference game on this year's regular season schedule.
The effort was thorough enough over the final 45 minutes that the stifling Blue Streak defense did not surrender a single shot let alone a shot on goal in the second half after a scoreless first half.
JCU had some early chances as did Fredonia, but neither team could break through in the opening period. John Carroll held a 10-5 advantage in shots taken for the first frame.
It did noy take long for the home squad to break through after intermission. A quick but short clear by Fredonia was countered immediately, and
Jesse Marinaro flicked a pass over the Blue Devils defense that
Hayden Parente raced to and popped in for his team-leading fifth goal in the 50th minute
That goal, combined with a hot and muggy night in University Heights, seemed to sap the visitors. JCU seized upon the lack of response and spent a majority of the second half peppering 18 shots at the Fredonia goal. The Blue Streaks found the post twice (including one on a penalty kick) before getting its long sought after second goal in the 87th minute. Emblematic of the JCU pressure,
Chad Kanakkanatt outraced a defender on a combo pass from William Turritin and
Jesse Marinaro and whistled a low shot inside the right post for his first goal of 2017.
Liam McIntosh made three aves -- all in the first half -- for his fifth shutout of the season and 17th of his career.
John Carroll opens Ohio Athletic Conference play on Saturday at 7:00 p.m. against Wilmington College at Shula Stadium.
