St. Louis men defeat Florida International

Akron, Ohio – SLU sophomore forward Mike Roach (Chaminade) notched his team-leading fifth goal of the season as St. Louis(m) posted a 1-0 victory against Florida International Friday evening in the first game of the University of Akron Tournament at Lee Jackson Field. Freshman goalie Mark Pais (Ladue Horton Watkins) made three saves for the Billikens’ first shutout victory of the season.

The win improves the Billikens’ record to 3-2-0 overall, and they have won two straight heading into Sunday’s matchup against No. 1 Akron. Florida International slips to 3-3-0 with the loss.

Roach’s goal was his team- and conference-leading fifth of the season. He has scored in four straight games and four of the five matches so far this season.

The Billikens cracked the scoreboard in the 22nd minute when Roach found the back of the net unassisted off a deflection from six yards away.

Saint Louis dominated play in the first 45 minutes, out-shooting Florida International 7-3 and holding a 7-0 advantage in corner kicks. Freshman midfielder Alex Sweetin generated some legitimate scoring chances, including one that ended up with his shot hitting the crossbar.

The Billikens again controlled possession for much of the second half, but were unable to penetrate the Golden Panthers defense for a second goal. On the other end, the SLU defense was also strong, holding FIU to just two shots in the period. Pais ended up with three saves for his second win in as many starts.

Overall, Saint Louis out-shot the Golden Panthers 9-5 and held a 14-1 advantage in corner kicks. Sweetin unleashed a career-high four shots to lead the Bills in that category.

    SLU returns to action Sunday in a matchup against the top-ranked Akron Zips. Game time at Akron’s Lee Jackson Field is slated for 1:30 p.m. (CT).