The Sacred Heart University men’s soccer team lost 2-0 to the University of Vermont on Aug. 21 in Burlington, Vermont, during their first match of the 2025 season.
The game marked a challenging start for Sacred Heart as they faced the reigning national champions and number one ranked Vermont. Both teams struggled for control in the first half, with Vermont holding a slight edge in shot attempts but unable to score against Sacred Heart goalkeeper Luca Marinelli. The score remained tied at zero after the first 45 minutes.
Sacred Heart managed four shots on goal throughout the match, surpassing Vermont’s three. Notable performances included Danny Istambouli and Sam McCann, who each recorded two shots, while Brady Poor added another attempt. Marinelli made a highlight save in the 80th minute by fully extending to catch the ball.
Vermont broke through in the 72nd minute when Nick Lockermann scored from a free kick. Despite opportunities for Sacred Heart late in the game—including fast-break chances by Poor and McCann—Vermont’s goalkeeper Niklas Herceg kept them off the scoreboard. The Catamounts secured their win with a second goal in the 85th minute.
Sacred Heart will look to rebound as they travel to Stony Brook, New York, for their next match against the Seawolves on Monday, August 25 at 6:30 p.m.
