WEST CHESTER, Pa. – West Chester (9-2-1, 7-0-0 PSAC) prevailed in a hard fought Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) battle this afternoon, knocking off visiting Gannon (7-5-1, 6-1-1 PSAC), 1-0, inside Rockwell Field. In effect, the Golden Rams took sole possession of first place in the standings.
How it Happened
- It was a back-and-forth match as it was scoreless heading into the half.
- Jr., F Jason Pixley (Philadelphia, Pa./Central) contributed the game winner at the 70:13 mark, tallying the goal off a cross by teammate Daniel Grindrod (Feasterville, Pa./Neshaminy).
- Pixley deflected the goal past Gannon's goalkeeper for his fourth of 2017. He is tied for the team lead with teammates Doug Goitia and Tyler Rapposelli.
- Sr., GK Matt Palmer (Bangor, Pa./Bangor) produced three saves in his fifth shutout victory of the season.
Inside the Numbers
- West Chester managed an 11-9 advantage in shots. Additionally, the Golden Rams led 6-3 in shots on goal.
- Gannon's Jorge Hernandez registered five saves in the net, only allowing one goal.
- The Golden Rams held a 6-3 edge in corner kicks.
- There were 18 fouls on both West Chester and Gannon in the contest. Additionally, there were six yellow cards distributed.
Coaches Corner: Michael Benn
"I'm proud of our guys. They (Gannon) were a great team and both were undefeated in league play. They were well prepared and I credit our guys. We didn't falter and had a strong spirit. This was what a playoff game looks like."
Pixley on the Game Winner
"First I have to credit the defense as it was our first shutout in a couple matches. I had an opportunity and capitalized. Glad to help the team out today."
Notes
- This marks the best start of conference play in school history at 7-0-0.
- This marks the ninth matchup between the two schools in the all-time series. West Chester evened the series today at 4-4-1. The first contest occurred in 2008.
Next Up
West Chester heads to Lock Haven on Sunday for another critical conference matchup at 1 p.m.
