Sept. 4, 2010

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WEST HARTFORD, Conn. - Behind two goals from senior Aaron O'Neal and one save from redshirt-freshman Brandon Briggs, the Boston University men's soccer team earned a 3-0 shutout victory at Hartford Saturday night. With their first win of the season in a non-conference match-up between two America East squads, the Terriers (1-0-1) snapped the Hawks' 10-game home opener unbeaten streak.

Recording his fourth two-goal performance in the last two seasons and fifth overall, O'Neal put the Terriers on the board first against Hartford (0-2-0) just a minute into the contest from 15 yards out on the right side during a breakaway. In the 15th minute, he redirected a pass from junior Stephen Knox for the 2-0 lead.

Six minutes later for the final score of the night, senior Ben Havey posted his first career goal as a Terrier at the top of the box after receiving a long pass from sophomore Ade Akinsanya at midfield.

BU's defense was stellar in the first half, not allowing the Hawks to attempt a single shot after they scored two goals on Wednesday at No. 12 Boston College. In the second, the Terriers maintained control and avenged last year's 2-1 defeat at Hartford in the opening round of the America East tournament.

Unfortunately for BU, the game became more physical as the game progressed following the three goals. Both squads suffered as a result with a combined seven cards, including a red card on junior Michael Bustamante and UH's Thomas Boyle at 76:35. Both men will be unable to play in their next respective game.

The Terriers finished with a 13-2 edge in shots and could have had more if not for six offsides. The Hawks recorded five corners against BU's two but were unable to break through the defensive wall. Both teams will face off again at Nickerson Field on Oct. 9 in a contest that will count toward the league standings.

Following their first road trip of the year, the Terriers quickly return home to Nickerson Field and will host Columbia on Monday (Sept. 6) at 7 p.m.