Box Score

FAIRFIELD, Conn. -- The Fairfield University men's soccer team opened the home portion of its schedule against nationally-ranked Boston College, but the visitors came away with a 1-0 victory. Forward Kevin Mejia scored the game's only goal in the 78th minute which improved the Eagles' overall record to 2-1. The Stags fell to 1-1 following the decision.

A strong defensive effort by both teams resulted in few scoring chances for the forwards. And when a chance did arise, it was the goalkeepers who were in position to keep the game scoreless. Only five shots were taken in the first 45 minutes with four of those attempts directed at the Fairfield goal.

Boston College had two chances late in the first half but smart play by goalkeeper Michael O'Keeffe ended both attacks. In the 42nd minute, Mejia sent a cross to the center box where Diego Medina-Mendez ran down the right flank. The cross arrived a second too early and O'Keeffe was able to clear the ball from danger. A minute later, Matt Wendellken sent a cross from the right side that was headed toward to Boston College players. But again, O'Keeffe came off his line to prevent the ball from arriving to feet.

The second half started with two more Eagle opportunities, the first coming off a give-and-go between Stefan Carter and Wendelken. Wendelken released a shot from six yards but O'Keeffe was equal to the task. A few minutes later, Mendez unleashed a shot from the left corner of the box which deflected off a Fairfield defender. The ball changed direction but O'Keeffe had the ability to correct his body and deflect the ball over the cross bar.

Fairfield nearly broke through in the 61st minute with creative play in the midfield. Tim West, who entered the game late in the first half, made a brilliant play by flicking the ball over his head with his back to goal, sending Jordan Ayris on a break with two defenders trailing on his right shoulder. Ayris carried the ball into the box but was bumped at the last moment causing his shot to go wide.

The Stags had another great chance in the 77th minute after being awarded a corner kick to the far side. Jon Clements placed the ball to the far post where Adam Cowen redirected the ball with his head. The shot went wide and set up a goal kick for Boston College. Just seconds after the restart, Derrick Boateng made a run down the left side and sent the ball to the left corner of the box. Mejia struck the ball from 15 yards and sent a shot into the upper right corner for a 1-0 lead.

Boston College finished the game with an 11-4 advantage in shots, including a 7-3 edge in the second half. O'Keeffe made seven saves for the Stags, five of which came in the second half.

Fairfield returns to action on Sunday, September 9 when it hosts Yale University at Lessing Field. Game time is slated for 1 pm.