Hokie ClubBLACKSBURG – The 12th seeded Virginia Tech Hokies men's soccer program got its postseason off to a terrific start with a 1-0 victory Sunday afternoon over Charlotte in the Second Round of the NCAA Tournament.
How sweet it is ‼️
— Virginia Tech Men's Soccer (@HokiesMSoccer) November 18, 2018
We're dancing into the Round of 16 next weekend pic.twitter.com/pFgyCP0GuI
The first half didn't produce too many chances as the 49ers managed two shots and the Hokies just one. Tech did have the better of possession in the first 45, earning four corners, but nothing came of those opportunities.
Then in the second half, both teams began to apply more pressure, particularly the Hokies, whose hustle paid off in the 53rd minute. Jakob Bluemler, who was working down the right flank got into a dangerous position in the box and fired a low shot that was pushed away by the keeper. Kristo Strickler was there to put away the rebound, his 10th goal of the season which would stand as the game winner.
(11/18/2018) 2018 MEN'S SOCCER NCAA SECOND ROUND GAME
Tech (11-6-3) advances to the Sweet Sixteen for the second time in three seasons, setting up a third contest against North Carolina or the first matchup with James Madison since 2005.
Late on in the game, play began getting stretched out with both clubs searching for long balls, the 49ers to probe the defense searching for an equalizer and the Hokies to relieve pressure. The Hokies' back line of Nikal Clarke-Smith, Will Mejia and captain Jon Ingason thwarted any attempt by Charlotte to get in behind to get a clear shot at Mathijs Swaneveld's goal.
Swaneveld, Tech's All-ACC goalkeeper, secured his fifth clean sheet of the season after making three saves. Ingason also saved a ball off of the line in the second half to preserve the shutout.
Charlotte sees their season conclude with a record of 14-5-2. Elliott Panicco made two saves in goal for the 49ers.
Up Next: The Hokies will play in round of 16 on Sunday, Nov. 25 against James Madison at Thompson Field. Kickoff is set for 4 p.m.