RADFORD, Va. — Behind a sustained offensive attack that put up 18 shots and a smothering defensive performance, the Radford men's soccer team secured their first victory of the season as they defeated VMI 2-0 on Wednesday evening at Cupp Stadium.

"I was really pleased with the guys tonight," said Radford head coach Chris Barrett. "We played some really good soccer. I was disappointed we didn't score more goals, but we created tons of chances. That's been our concentration and focus in our training. In the attacking third, I thought we were very dangerous. I was also really pleased that we kept a clean sheet, so hopefully this gives us the positive momentum that we need to continue throughout the season."

The Highlanders (1-3-1) set the tone early, as Mateo Perez Nance cashed in on a chip-shot in the 8th minute that deflected off the right post and into the net. The goal was set up by a well-timed feed from Samuel Schwarz, who was credited with the assist. For Perez Nance, it was his first goal in a Radford uniform.

Radford dominated play throughout the tonight, besting the Keydets in shots by an 18-4 margin. The Highlanders also had eight corner kicks, while the visitors had just two.

VMI (0-5-1) tried to put together a rally late in the second half, but Radford shut the door. In the 82nd minute, Cristian Cruz capitalized off a bad pass by the Keydets, finding himself alone in the box. He deposited a wicked shot to the right side of the net, giving the Highlanders a much-needed insurance goal as they went ahead 2-0.

Both Perez Nance and Cruz were highly active in the attacking third, as the duo recorded five shots each. Jan Maldonado and Schwarz also chipped in a pair of shots.

Radford earned their second clean sheet of the season, this time using two goalkeepers. Bryce Peacock started in the first half, while Alex Eydelman came in for the second half and recorded two saves while holding the Keydets scoreless.

UP NEXT
Radford will have a six-day break before they resume their four-game homestand on Sep. 20 against Davidson. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m., and the game can be streamed on ESPN+.

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