LOUDONVILLE, NY — Siena Men's Soccer defeated Niagara 3-1 on Saturday at Hickey Field, capping off a Senior Day to remember for the program's four graduating emembers. Siena's victory was highlighted by a
Lucas Almeida hat trick, as they capitalized on seven shots on goal. The Saints secured the win with two first-half goals, adding a third after the break, while Niagara managed one goal in the first half.
Siena improves to 5-4-4 overall and 4-0-3 in conference play and extended its program record unbeaten streak to eight matches. The Purple Eagles stand at 6-5-1 overall and 3-3-1 in conference play.
Almeida scored all three goals, with his hat trick coming on four shots.
Bennet Glinder made four saves in the second half, allowing just one goal to secure the win.
Eric Svensson contributed with an assist, adding to the team's offensive efforts.
Christian Amaral and
Lee Mara also provided an assist each.
The first period began with Siena exhibiting offensive momentum, with Almeida opening the scoring in the 23rd minute, assisted by Mara. This early lead was quickly matched by Niagara's Reon Tezuka, who scored with an assist from Jeremie Truel in the 25th minute.
Siena responded with sustained pressure, culminating in another goal from Almeida in the 41st minute, assisted by Amaral and Svensson, restoring their lead. This goal marked Almeida's first career multi-goal game. The period closed with Siena ahead 2-1, having capitalized on key scoring opportunities.
The second period began evenly, with both sides trading opportunities. Siena applied early pressure, evidenced by shots from
Mario Navarro Perez and
Benjamin Fogarty. Despite several attempts, the home team was unable to initially capitalize, as Grant Wyles made critical saves for the Purple Eagles.
As the period progressed, Siena maintained its offensive efforts. Amaral's attempt was thwarted, but the team continued to push forward. In the 88th minute, Almeida broke through with a decisive goal, a three-on-one breakaway, securing his hat trick and extending Siena's lead. This goal also secured Almeida as the team leader with his fifth goal of the season and tied him for third in the MAAC with 15 points.
Siena's defense held firm, with
Bennet Glinder making key saves, including one in the final moments against Tezuka.
In their next game, Siena will travel to Hamden, CT, to face Quinnipiac on Saturday, Oct. 25. The match is set for a 2 p.m. kickoff at the Quinnipiac Soccer & Lacrosse Stadium.
