Tech takes down American at home, 1-0

Blacksburg, Va. -- Virginia Tech returned home and used the momentum of Saturday’s win to earn a second victory Tuesday, this time against American University, 1-0. After a scoreless half, Mikey Minutillo put the ball in the back of the net in the 55th minute, earning the game-winning goal. This is the Hokies’ first shutout of the season, pushing their record to 3-4-1 on the year.

Minutillo’s goal came as a result of some quick back-and-forth passes inside the 18-yard-box, which ultimately led to a wide open shot for the freshman from San Jose, Calif. The goal is Minutillo’s second of the season. Shots were relatively even, with American outshooting Tech 14-12. Tech kept pressure on the Eagles’ goal all game, taking nine corner kicks to American’s five. The Eagles’ gave possesion up to the Hokies multiple times, committing 12 fouls.

Tech keeper Kyle Renfro was solid in between the posts, grabbing six saves on 14 shots. This is Renfro’s third win of the season in six starts.

Other offensive pressure for the Hokies came from Greg Cochrane, who took three shots, two on goal. Clarke Bentley, Albert Alwang, and David Clemens all took two shots for the match as well.

The Hokies will get a two-day break before hitting the road Friday, Oct. 1 to face ACC opponent Wake Forest at 7 p.m. Tech is currently 1-0-1 in ACC play.