POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. – The Marist men’s soccer team (6-5-4, 2-3-2 MAAC) will host a Metro Athletic Atlantic Conference match against Niagara (5-4-2, 2-0-1 MAAC) Wednesday afternoon at 1 P.M. This will be the first of a two game home-stand that will conclude their home schedule. Three crucial points are on the line as the Red Foxes trail Canisius and Monmouth in the standings by two points for the sixth and final playoff spot in the MAAC Championships.

Previous Outing

The Red Foxes recorded their fourth tie of the season in a 0-0 contest on Oct. 25 against Monmouth. While Monmouth mounted more total shots with 19, the Red Foxes were more accurate in their attempts and totaled eight shots on goal to six from Hawks. Freshman goalkeeper Mark Rajovic (Katonah, N.Y.) played an excellent game in goal, a reoccurring theme this season, and completed his sixth shutout of the season.

Red Fox To Watch

Junior Midfielder Steven Arraiano (Putnam Valley, N.Y.) contributed with three shots, two on goal in the Red Foxes last outing. Arraiano now has one goal and eight shots on goal for the season. The team will need him to be strong in the midfield and contribute offensively as well.

Scouting The Purple Eagles

Niagara has now been shut-out eight total times this season after falling to Fairfield 2-0 on Oct. 25. Sophomore midfielder Nicholas Watson currently leads the Purple Eagles in goals (4), shots (32), and shots on goal (13).

A Look Ahead

The Red Foxes will continue MAAC play when they host Rider (8-5-2, 5-3-0 MAAC) on Saturday, Oct. 18 at 2 P.M. to close out their home schedule. Points will be tougher to come by this last in the year as the race for the playoffs is underway.