NEW ROCHELLE, NY – The Iona men’s soccer program opened up the MAAC campaign with a dominant 4-1 win over Saint Peter’s.  The Gaels season-best offensive explosion Tuesday was highlighted by two goals from sophomore Daniel Huertas.  Senior Teddy Forson and sophomore junior Matias Correa each pitched in, scoring their first goals of the season.

The Maroon & Gold got on the board in the 19^th minute.  Freshman Malcolm Moreno drew a foul just outside the box, setting up the Gaels for a dangerous scoring chance.  Correa stepped up to the plate buried the free kick, curving a shot from the right side into the upper left corner.

Huertas scored his first goal in the 26^th minute, once again hooking up with Forson for a second straight game.  The senior forward crossed it into the box, and his attacking counterpart nudged his way between a pair of Peacock defenders to head it into the upper right corner.

At the conclusion of the first half, Iona outshot Saint Peter’s 10-1, and held a 2-0 corner kick advantage. 

Huertas stayed red hot to start the second half, scoring his second goal of the game just two minutes into the second half.  Correa pushed the pace with a quick skimming pass past the Saint Peter’s defense, leading Huertas to an easy path for his second tally.

With the game well in hand, the Maroon & Gold found themselves having dangerous chances at the end of the game while Saint Peter’s was pressing to score.  Forson took advantage of the Peacocks defensive aggression, burning by the backline and deking the goalkeeper to allow himself an open net to ruffle.

Saint Peter’s scored its lone goal with just ninety seconds remaining in regulation.  Junior Davis Hockings fed a desperate cross into the box, and amidst the mass of deflections, junior Michael Crentsil was able head it in for a goal.

In his first career start, freshman Juan Alcantara faced just five shots, saving one attempt.  Iona outshot Saint Peter’s 20-5 overall, with nine of its shots being on net.  Senior Jamie Cleland made five saves in goal for the Peacocks.

The win ends the Maroon & Gold’s five game losing streak.  Iona will look to continue the momentum on Saturday, Oct. 1 against Fairfield.