Hatters Advance to 2-0 in ASUN Behind 2-0 Win over FGCU
DeLAND, Fla. – For the second time in three seasons, the Stetson Hatters opened ASUN conference play 2-0, securing a hard-fought 2-0 victory over in-state rival FGCU on Saturday night at the Athletic Training Center. Maurice Hauser netted his team-leading third goal of the season, while goalkeeper Nicolo Radaelli recorded his sixth career clean sheet, tying him for sixth most in program history.
The win also marks Head Coach Emmett Rutkowski’s 25th at the helm of the Hatters, who will improve to 3-4-2 on the season.
Eager to get back in the win column, the Hatters struck first in the 42nd minute when Hauser broke free for a key opener. The sophomore midfielder’s goal marked his third of the year, as he continues to lead the team with seven points.
In search of an insurance goal in the closing half, Andres Rodriguez delivered in the 74th minute, netting his first career goal for the Hatters. Freshman Benjamin Donato set up the play with an assist after a deflected shot from Andres Mata.
Stetson narrowly outshot FGCU 12-11, with Hauser leading the charge with three shots on goal. The Hatters also earned five corner kicks, all of which came in the first half.
After being rested in the previous match, Radaelli returned to action and stood tall in goal, making six crucial saves. The graduate keeper from Milan, Italy now has recorded 29 saves on the season, tied for second most in the ASUN.
Stetson will now hit the road for a three-game swing across the state, beginning with the Jacksonville Dolphins at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 5.
