Michigan State University
4-1-1, 1-0-0
Maryland
1-3-2, 0-1-1
No. 16 Men's Soccer Downs Maryland, 1-0
9/20/2014 12:00:00 AM | Men's Soccer
"I'm really proud of the guys for an awesome win," said head coach Damon Rensing, "I thought they played really well in the first half. We created chances and got the goal to bring the game to 1-0. This was a huge team performance. We are not at full strength right now, but I thought that we were very impressive at College Park.
"The atmosphere was electric. There were over 6,000 people at tonight's game. They were great hosts. We were fortunate to be a part of their first Big Ten home match that also aired on the Big Ten Network. It was great."
Following a flurry of set pieces, junior midfielder Jason Stacy scored his first career goal in the ninth minute on a combo play from senior forward Tim Kreutz. Stacy's goal puts him at five points on the season with three assists to now lead the team in scoring. MSU netted its sixth goal of the season as Stacy becomes the sixth different Spartan to score this season.
Back and forth of possession showcased strong Spartan defense, leaving the half with an MSU lead of 1-0.
"We really only gave up one shot in the first half," said Rensing. "I thought we controlled the tempo well. It was a really mature team performance."
Maryland opened the second half with increasing pressure. Spartan possession was limited, but Jerome Cristobal found another chance in the Maryland backfield 80 minutes in.
"In the second half, Maryland definitely came at us," Rensing said. "We didn't get on the ball as much as we would like. It was a tough environment, but the character of the guys, our team, really showed tonight."
The half confirmed MSU's defensive resilience as led by Bennett. Junior defender Zach Carroll closed out the game with a definitive clear from inside the box.
"I think we came to a great finish," said Rensing. "Zach Carroll summed up what the back line was like the whole game. Between the guys on the line, I think they really epitomized what Spartan defense is about in a key play."
Bennett moved into sole possession of third place of the MSU history books with 21 career shutouts following the match, just two shy of tying the all-time record.
"It was a great team win," said Rensing. "From Stacy scoring to Zach Carroll clearing it off the line, to the guys working until they just can't run anymore, that's what this program is about. We're very proud of our guys.
"I was impressed with the team leaders today. Two-year captain Adam Montague was out, but there were many others who stepped up to set the tone for the game. They showed a great mentality in a tough environment."
The Spartans will play their next match next Wednesday, Sept. 24 at 7 p.m. at Bowling Green.
Team Stats
Stacy, Jason (1)
Assisted By: Kreutz, Tim
right-footed strike from 10 yards
8:03
