WASHINGTON – The No. 1 Georgetown University men's soccer team used a big second-half push to defeat the Villanova University Wildcats 3-0 in the 2021 spring season opener on Saturday in Villanova, Pennsylvania. The Hoyas are now 1-0 on the season and the same in BIG EAST Conference play, while the Wildcats drop to 0-3 on the year.
Head Coach Brian Wiese
- "We really need to get into a rhythm since we've only played 60 minutes of competitive soccer in the last calendar year. After a break like this, the first game is always a little nerve wracking so it was great to get a win out of it against a good Villanova team. There is still a lot to evolve for us this season with new faces, injuries and the challenges that come with a shortened preseason. But the foundation is there to be excited about this group. It was great to get out there and shake the rust off.
How it Happened
- Following some good early looks, Georgetown got on the board just before the half in the 43rd minute as sophomore Will Sands sent a pass from the left side to newcomer Chris Hegardt. The freshman weaved through the Villanova defense shooting at the top of the box and connected to make it 1-0 and give Hegardt his first-career goal.
- After the break, the Blue & Gray put the pressure on as the game began to get physical.
- Midway through the second, it was the play of sophomore Dante Polvara who scored the insurance goals.
- In the 61st minute Polvara rose above the crowd on a corner and headed the ball to the left side of the net to make it 2-0.
- Just six minutes later, Polvara found the back of the net again on a penalty kick making the score 3-0 which would stand as the final.
Of Note
- Georgetown outshot Villanova 16-7 with eight on goal to the 'Cats one.
- The Hoyas were awarded five corner kicks to VU's one in the game.
- Senior Ethan Koehler picked up the win the net and also tallied the shutout managing one save on the afternoon. Carson Wilson of 'Nova took the loss.
- This was the first-career multi-goal game for Polvara in his time on the Hilltop.
Up Next
- The Hoyas will host Seton Hall in their home opener at Shaw Field on Wednesday. Kickoff is scheduled for 2 p.m. Live stats and a stream via Hoyavision ($) featuring Georgetown alums Dan Helfrich and Tom Greaser will be available at GUHoyas.com.
Fan Information
- All Georgetown men's soccer home games are currently scheduled to be played at Shaw Field. In accordance with Washington, D.C. regulations which limit the size of in-person gatherings, fans are regrettably not permitted to attend home games at this time.