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CHAPEL HILL, N.C. Freshman Tony Tchani scored his team-high eighth goal of the season, a penalty kick in the 85th minute, and Virginia defeated No. 12 North Carolina, 1-0, on the road Friday night.
“This game was another example of us grinding out a victory on the road,” Virginia head coach George Gelnovatch said. “We played with a lot of heart and we were organized and disciplined, which got us the win. I could not be more proud of this young team.”
With the shutout victory, the Cavaliers (6-3-0, 3-0-0 ACC) have now won four-straight games. North Carolina (8-2-1, 1-2-0 ACC) entered the match ranked No. 12 in both the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) and Soccer America top 25 polls and had not lost a game at Fetzer Field in 2008.
Prior to Friday’s game, Virginia’s last win at North Carolina came during the 2000 season, as the Cavaliers had dropped four straight on the road in the series. UVa now has an edge in the all-time series, 34-33-7.
Tchani’s goal was his fourth successful converted penalty kick of the year, as well as his second game-winner. Chase Neinken set up the scoring opportunity when he was able to find space on a breakaway in a one-on-one situation with UNC goalkeeper Jacob Wescoe. Wescoe’s foul on Neinken resulted in the Cavalier PK.
The Tar Heels had one chance following Tchani’s score, but North Carolina’s Ryan Adeleye’s shot sailed high in the 90th minute.
In goal for Virginia, Michael Giallombardo posted his third shutout in four starts, tallying four saves in the process. Giallombardo has allowed just one goal in 360 minutes of action in 2008.
North Carolina out-shot Virginia, 11-7, and held an 8-3 advantage in corner kicks.
In addition to Tchani’s three shots, Brian Ownby and Matt Mitchell also recorded two shots apiece.
On deck for UVa is a two-game homestand. Liberty visits Klckner Stadium on Tuesday, Oct. 7, at 7 p.m., followed by a conference match with Clemson on Friday, Oct. 10, at 7 p.m.