HONOLULU, HI – In an exciting match against Hawaii Pacific University in Honolulu, Menlo Men's Soccer continued their impressive win streak with a 2-0 victory. It was a team effort with coaches, starters, and substitutions all working together to get the job done in marvelous fashion. The Oaks are on their way to leaving the Island undefeated with one more matchup happening in just a few days at Hawaii Hilo.
Faeth on Fire
The Oaks stellar victory run has been fueled by the standout performance of senior striker Parker Faeth. Faeth, who recently delivered two assists against Chaminade on Thursday, struck his first goal of the season in the 50th minute against the Sharks. The play developed from a well-placed throw-in by Roy Rosenberg near the halfway line. Rosenberg found Oliver Mayer, who showed his talents to move past his defender, reaching the end line. Mayer's perfectly lofted cross sailed towards Faeth at the back post, who powered the ball into the net with a strong finish, putting the Oaks ahead 1-0.
The momentum didn't stop there. Junior striker Isak Haukefaer solidified Menlo's victory in the 64th minute with a stunning left-footed goal, his sixth of the season, to give the Oaks a 2-0 lead. Haukefaer's sharp strike was a rebound off of efforts from teammate Sebastion Lopez who pressured the Sharks goalkeeper to make a difficult save. Isak leads the team in goals and is tied for 2nd in the league with 6 in the back of the net now. Isak's goal ensured the Oak's control of the match, extending their unbeaten streak and putting on display their intricate ball movement and technical superiority. Men's Soccer will add three more points to Conference standings, placing them at 2nd overall after this win.
Shining Oaks
Menlo's collective performance was a masterclass in both defense and offense. The Oaks registered 16 total shots, with 6 on target, while their defense allowed only 7 shots from HPU, 2 of which required saves. Goalkeeper Martin Fiala was once again a rock in goal, recording 2 key saves and securing his sixth win of the season. Fiala has also recorded three shutouts this season, landing him at 2nd in the PacWest.
Menlo's control of the game was reflected in their possession and chances created, with notable contributions from outside backs Roy Rosenberg and Donald Holliday, whose solid defensive work helped neutralize the HPU attack. Within the 90 minutes of play, the Oaks earned 3 corner kick opportunities and had to defend 4 from the Sharks. Despite facing a physical game, where Menlo incurred 16 fouls and 2 yellow cards, they kept their composure to claim another important victory, improving their record to 6-3-1 (4-1 in conference).
Up Next….
The Oaks' impressive display sets them up well for their next matchup happening on Tuesday, October 15th at Hawaii Hilo with a kick-off set for 3:30pm.
