Any time there is an extended layoff during a season it is always a test for that team as to how it will adapt to game speed and Saturday it was Duquesne Men’s Soccer’s turn to answer that question.
It had been two weeks since a victory at Detroit Mercy and it was time for the Atlantic 10 opener against Rhode Island.
Head coach Chase Brooks outlined the balance with keeping his team excited, engaged and in the right direction, all with the understanding that the 90 minutes were going to be a different animal.
He was looking to find an edge that could be replicated in action and a 1-0 victory Saturday evening on Rooney Field certainly indicated a response to that prompt.
“Super proud of the guys,” senior midfielder Tyler Kato offered. “I will say it wasn’t a pretty game, but we fell back on what we knew, and that’s to work hard, close out the game and get the clean sheet.”
Be that as it may, Brooks circled up his team and explained that every win in A10 play is a good win and it was a testament to the performance, hard work and sacrifices, all vital traits at any level.
“What we talked about at halftime, they executed really well,” said Brooks. “Ultimately in the right place at the right time, putting the ball back in on frame and numbers in the box. All good things that we want to see on the field. Right now for us it’s about continuing to take little steps along the way and pay attention to the details.”
This win was Brooks’s 100th lifetime since leading Duquesne.
Kato was the one credited with the goal, his first of the season and second with Duquesne. He saw teammate Chris Philibin in position and was right there for the ball to roll across the box.
Not lost on Kato is the significance of just what that goal means. During preseason practices, he was out with an injury, and missed the opening two games of this season.
In four matches, his minutes have increased from 18 to 44, coming off the bench.
“Really appreciative of everyone on the coaching staff, Ashley (Baker), Liam (Dempsey) getting back to speed and getting me back on the playing field,” Kato readily exclaimed. “As always, all glory to God, lord and savior Jesus Christ for helping me get through it.”
Duquesne also earned A10 recognition as goalkeeper Sam Coss was named the conference’s defensive player of the week for a second time this season. He recorded six saves, securing his fourth shutout of the season on Rooney Field.
The Dukes next host West Virginia Tuesday at 7 p.m. This will be the first official meeting since Oct. 5, 2014 when WVU won 3-0, but from a technicality standpoint, Duquesne hosted the Mountaineers in an exhibition Aug. 12, 2022 and emerged victorious en route to an 11-4-4 season
VIDEOS
PSN’s Featured Community Partner: Open Field International
Pittsburgh Riverhounds
USL Championship Atlantic Division Preview: Familiarity breeds contempt
