LOUDONVILLE, N.Y. – Siena Soccer was the beneficiary of an 87^th minute own goal as the Saints recovered late to forge a 1-1 tie with Sacred Heart at Siena Turf Field. Both teams scored their goals within the final 10 minutes of regulation.

 

The offensive action picked up late, and Sacred Heart (1-4-1) broke through with the first goal with just 9:22 remaining. A deflection from the top of box off a rebound by Ermir Celaj bounced over Siena (1-4-2) goalkeeper Aleksa Radosavljevic to give the Pioneers the late advantage.

 

But the resilient Saints were persistent and their continued offensive pressure paid off. With just 3:44 left in regulation, a cross was pinballed around in the box before being inadvertently put in by a Sacred Heart defender to knot the score.

 

Siena controlled the overtime sessions holding a 5-1 edge in shots while attempting the only corner, but Pioneers’ keeper Robert Strain made three of his eight saves during extra time to preserve the tie.

 

Radosavljevic made six saves for the Saints which held advantages in both shots (14-12) and corners (10-3). Senior striker Junior Rosero attempted half of Siena’s shots and was responsible for putting six of the team’s eight markers on target.

 

The Saints continue their challenging non-conference schedule Wednesday when they welcome defending Sun Belt Regular Season and Tournament Champion Hartwick to Loudonville for a 3 p.m. kickoff.