Smithfield, RI – The University of Hartford men's soccer team opened its 2009 campaign with a 1-0 victory against the Bryant Bulldogs on Tuesday afternoon.

The Hawks and the Bulldogs were tied up into the 83rd minute of play before seniors Ivan Guarin and Carlos Villa teamed up for a late game-winning goal. Villa snuck a ball through the stingy Briant defense, allowing Guarin to sink the ball to the left side of the net past Bryant goalkeeper Matt Miscione. 

“It was a typical early season match,” commented Assistant Coach Dave Kelly. “Both teams battled hard and didn't want to give anything away. A young, but organized Bryant made it difficult for us to impose ourselves on the match. (Ivan) Guarin and Sam Groves create a duo in center midfield that will cause problems, while (Carlos) Villa continues to be a threat up top.”

Hartford finished the game with a 13-7 lead in the shot column, holding just a two shot advantage over the Bulldogs heading into the halftime break. In the second half, the Hawks outshot the Bulldogs 8-4.

Hartford keeper Nenad Cudic picked up the victory in goal for the Hawks, making just two saves to record the shutout for the Hawks. The shutout was the fourth of his career. For the Bulldogs, Miscione also played all 90 minutes in goal, facing seven shots on target while making six stops.

The men's soccer team's next match will be its home opener on Saturday, September 5 against the University of Massachusetts at Al-Marzook Field on the University of Hartford campus. Kickoff is slated for 7:00 p.m.