The University of Scranton men’s soccer team found itself in an intense, hard-fought battle with Misericordia on Tuesday night at Fitzpatrick Field, and despite outshooting the Cougars handily, the Royals settled for a 0-0 draw in double overtime.

Scranton (4-1-1) held a 17-5 advantage in shots, including 10-1 after halftime, but could not find the back of the net. The Royals’ best chance came in the 85th minute when freshman midfielder Robbie Hartan (Hebron, Conn./RHAM) got free at the left post for a header from point-blank range, but Cougars junior goalkeeper Barry Fitzgerald (Marlton, N.J./Cherokee) anticipated the play perfectly and the shot landed in his midsection for one of his five saves on the evening.

Hartan, sophomore midfielder Tim DiBisceglie (Mine Hill, N.J./Gill St. Bernard’s) and sophomore defender Pat Codispoti (Rockville Centre, N.Y./Chaminade) led the Royals with three shots each.

The defense posted its fifth shutout in six matches this season, led by sophomore goalkeeper Eric Hintz (South Windsor, Conn./South Windsor), who made three saves. The Royals also received strong efforts from sophomore defender Matthew Busch (Mahwah, N.J./Mahwah) and junior defenders Michael Dorney (Avon, Conn./Avon) and Ryan Smith (Maple Glen, Pa./Hatboro-Horsham).

Scranton returns to action on Saturday, Sept. 20, when the Royals host Cortland State at 7 p.m. at Fitzpatrick Field.

--ROYALS--