No. 16 Cavaliers Defeat Cincinnati, 1-0

Story Links

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – Will Bates’ goal in the 60th minute lifted the No. 16 Virginia men’s soccer team to a 1-0 victory over Cincinnati Friday at the Hilton Garden Hokie Invitational, hosted at Thompson Field in Blacksburg by Virginia Tech. The match twice was delayed because of lightning; the second delay came in the 86th minute and after an hour delay, the game was called.

Virginia (2-1-0) struck for its goal in the 60th minute when Brian Span lofted a cross to Bates, who then beat goalkeeper Joey Barnard with his third goal of the year on a volley from 12 yards out. Bates now has three goals and a pair of assists in two games this week.

Virginia goalkeeper Spencer LaCivita picked up his first career shutout and made three saves. Barnard also made three saves for Cincinnati (1-1-0).

UVa held a 13-5 edge in shots and out-shot the Bearcats 9-2 in the second half. Bates led UVa with five shots, while Eric Bird recorded three shots. The Cavaliers also owned a 6-2 advantage in corners. UC committed 14 fouls, compared to seven for UVa.

Virginia will conclude the tournament by facing Wisconsin at noon Sunday.