ST. BONAVENTURE, N.Y. – Ryan Holt netted his first two goals of the season as the St. Bonaventure University men's soccer team kicked off Atlantic 10 play with a 2-1 victory over VCU Saturday afternoon at the Marra Athletics Complex.
The Rams (0-6-2, 0-1-0 A10) grabbed control of the contest early when Mohammad Ibrahim curled in the game's first goal to give VCU the lead.
Just minutes later, Holt had his first shot of the contest in the 17th minute, but it was deflected out for a corner kick.
Harrison Nitz sent in a ball that bounced around the box before eventually landing at the foot of Holt, who found the equalizer in the 18th minute.
In the 30th minute, Brendan Sheehan was played in on a long ball down the sideline. Sheehan curled in a cross that found the head of Holt, giving the Bonnies the lead on Holt's second goal of the game.
Bonnies goalkeeper Winston Jory was tested in the 43rd minute but was able to make the save to preserve the lead before halftime.
Jory was tested again just out of the break in the 54th minute on a chance from David Leavey and was able to make the stop.
Bona's had chances from Sheehan, Holt and Alistair McFall as the Bonnies looked to extend their lead, but they were unable to find the back of the net.
Holt's shot in the 71st minute forced VCU goalkeeper Manuel Monteiro to sprawl out to make the save.
Looking for the late equalizer, VCU put the pressure on in the final 10 minutes, generating four scoring chances, but the Bonnies (3-2-2, 1-0-0 A10) defense and Jory prevailed as the Bonnies secured three points in the Atlantic 10 standings.
Holt finished the game with a team-high five shots, while Jory made four saves in net for the Brown and White.
QUOTES FROM HEAD COACH MICK GIORDANO
"Extremely proud of the team and staff. That wasn't totally the game plan we had but what a way for the group to believe and defend so bravely. VCU is a very good team. They are well coached and beyond talented. So we will enjoy this win but then back to work tomorrow. Beyond proud of the group to battle back from taking an early goal and not once caving in to the moment. They stood brave and showed true grit. We have to keep growing in possession and stay disciplined in our defending for the coming games. Once again, so proud and grateful of every member in our program and staff member!"
UP NEXT
The Bonnies remain at home to host Cleveland State for a non-conference matchup Tuesday, Sept. 22. Kickoff is slated for 6:00 p.m.
---
For the latest news on St. Bonaventure athletics, stay connected on social media. Follow the Bonnies on X @GoBonnies and get men's soccer updates @BonniesMSoccer. Keep up with the Bonnies on Facebook /GoBonnies and on Instagram @GoBonnies. Bonnies Men's Soccer can be found on Instagram @bonniesmsoccer
