BUFFALO, N.Y. — Despite a strong defensive showing and several key saves from goalkeeper Matteo Marciani, the West Virginia Wesleyan men’s soccer team dropped a 2–0 decision to D’Youville University on Wednesday afternoon at Dobson Field.
Wesleyan (2–7–1, 1–6–0 MEC) played composed early, trading possessions and creating chances through the midfield. In the 13th minute, Erik Rostoen tested the Saints’ keeper with a shot to the top left corner that was saved. However, D’Youville (3–4–2, 1–1–1 ECC) broke through in the 18th minute when Finn Savage converted a cross from Ethan Robinson to put the hosts up 1–0.
The Bobcats stayed aggressive, outpacing the Saints in fouls but also generating key looks — including a near goal by Jake Hotka, whose strike in the 39th minute rattled off the left post. Marciani turned away five first-half shots to keep Wesleyan within one heading into the break.
Wesleyan continued to press after halftime, opening the half with early corners and an on-target attempt from Hotka in the 47th minute. The Bobcats’ defensive unit, anchored by Roneba Cordice and Noel Ellis, handled a heavy D’Youville attack that produced 13 second-half shots and 10 corner kicks overall.
Marciani delivered one of the game’s top moments in the 66th minute, denying Dylan Danch on a penalty kick to keep the Bobcats in contention. However, Savage struck again in the 81st minute — finishing unassisted for his second goal of the day to seal the 2–0 result.
Wesleyan returns home Oct. 12 for a Sunday afternoon match against Point Park University (Pa.) at Culpepper Stadium. Kickoff is 3:30 p.m.
