UTSA soccer out shot Navy 16-5 as the Roadrunners earned a 2-1 victory on Thursday night at Park West. With a mix of newcomers and returning contributors rounding out the ‘Runners 2024 roster, UTSA had little issue demonstrating a strong sense of newfound cohesion in their opening day win.
The ‘Runners (1-0) battled it out with a service academy for the first time in program history, hosting the Midshipmen (0-1) for UTSA’s salute to armed forces night. Now in his seventh season with UTSA, coach Derek Pittman was pleased with his team’s grit and fight in the win.
“We want to compete. If you make a mistake, which is going to happen, move on to the next play,” Pittman said. “The team that fights and grinds is usually going to be the team who comes away with the win. I thought we were able to do that tonight and I’m really pleased with where we are at.”
The ‘Runners’ aggressiveness was on full display in the first period, outshooting Navy 3-0 and spending 48% of the period in the Midshipmen’s penalty area.
UTSA scored its first goal of the season off the boot of Memphis transfer defender Zoë May, connecting with the bottom right of the net.
“We wanted to come out strong and make a statement,” May said. “We’ve been working
on corners and set pieces so I’m just happy I could deliver.”
Following the score, UTSA and Navy engaged in a 40 minute game of keep away, with both teams displaying their defensive capabilities.
The ‘Runners broke through in the 65th minute with the go-ahead goal from redshirt junior center back Kameron Kloza, finding the top right of the net.
The Midshipmen scored their first and only goal of the match in the final minute, yet failed to produce the tying score.
UTSA will take on the cross-town rival Incarnate Word Cardinals at 6 p.m. Sunday at Toyota Field.
