UNC Wilmington men defeat James Madison

HARRISONBURG, Va. –Second-half goals by juniors Tyler Wheaton and Daniel Roberts lifted No. 23 UNC Wilmington past host James Madison, 2-0, in Colonial Athletic Association men’s soccer action on Wednesday at the JMU Soccer Complex.

The win extended UNCW’s league-leading unbeaten streak to eight matches (6-0-2) and improved its record to 10-2-3 overall and 6-0-2 in the CAA. JMU, meanwhile, saw its record dip to 8-5-2 and 3-4-1 in conference action.
“We’re absolutely delighted to pick up three points this evening, especially on the road,” said UNCW Head Coach Aidan Heaney.

The key road win also was the Seahawks’ first in 15 attempts against the Dukes in Harrisonburg and was also Heaney’s 100th career win.

“I didn’t realize the milestone was within reach until someone told me today before the game. I want to thank all those who have played for me and those with whom I’ve worked with during my years as a head coach.”

After a scoreless first half in which JMU held a 9-5 advantage in shots, Wheaton notched his team-leading fifth goal of the season, coming early in the 53rd minute. Sophomore Christian Davidson started the play with a deep throw-in to junior Tyler Clare who flicked a pass to Wheaton, whose header beat JMU goalkeeper Justin Epperson inside the left post. Davidson was credited with his team-high fifth assist on the play.

Just 5:02 later, Roberts staked the Seahawks to a 2-0 lead with his second goal of the season at the 57:03 mark. Roberts fired a low-liner from 16 yards out that deflected off Wheaton and beat Epperson, who was diving to make the save on the initial shot.

Junior Brock Duckworth made five saves on the night in recording his fifth shutout of the season for the Seahawks, who remained in second-place, one point behind conference-leader Northeastern.

Epperson, who was making his first start of the season, finished with six saves while facing 15 shots.

Stefan Durr and Christian McLaughlin each had three shots for the Dukes, who finished with a 19-15 advantage in shots.

The Seahawks return to the UNCW Soccer Stadium on Oct. 31, when it hosts defending CAA champion George Mason at 7 p.m.