Box Score WASHINGTON – The American University men's soccer team reached the 10-win plateau on Wednesday afternoon at Reeves Field, downing Patriot League foe Loyola Maryland, 1-0. The gamewinner by sophomore Panos Nakhid came in the 89th minute.
2014 is the fourth season since American joined the Patriot League in 2001 that the Eagles have registered double-digit victories.
AU faced a physical test against the Greyhounds, but came away victorious thanks to Nakhid's heroics.
Loyola was able clear out a corner with less than two minutes remaining in regulation, but AU's first-year midfielder corralled the header and blasted it home from 26 yards out for his first career goal.
"It was an excellent play by Panos," said head coach Todd West. "We knew if we kept playing our game, we would be ok today. It was a tough match against a Loyola team that played back almost the whole time and fouled us a lot. We are proud of our accomplishment, but need to keep our focus with BU set for Saturday in Boston."
American was held off the score sheet for almost 89 straight minutes thanks to Loyola's dedication to defense, but the constant barrage finally caught up to the Greyhounds. AU outshot their regional and conference foe, 20-8.
The Eagles also did well to limit Loyola's chances, holding the Greyhounds to eight shots and none on target.
With his latest clean sheet, AU goalkeeper Dylan Hobert picked up his sixth shutout of the season.
American is now unbeaten in its past four games, allowing only one goal in that span. The Eagles continue to receive votes in the national Top 25 poll.
AU is now set up for a pivotal matchup at Boston University this Saturday. The Eagles are currently third in the Patriot League standings with BU holding the top spot. First kick is set for 1 p.m.
