Vikings Open Conference Play With 2-2 Draw

SALEM, Mass. – After falling behind 2-0 on Alumni field this afternoon, Matheus Pelissari (Lowell, Mass.) spearheaded Salem State men's soccer to the 2-2 draw over Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference (MASCAC) foe Fitchburg State University.

How it Happened:

• The Falcons took control early with a goal in the 13th minute, putting Fitchburg ahead 1-0. The Vikings' offense looked to respond but couldn't land their six attempts, leaving them trailing by a single tally heading into the break. 

• An early second half strike put the Falcons up two before Pelissari battled his way through the defense to lace the ball into the corner pocket, making it a 2-1 game in the 55th minute. 

• Six minutes later, Pelissari sent a high ball into the box, where Gabriel DaSilva (Woburn, Mass.) battled to connect with it, heading it past the Falcons' goalkeeper to equalize the game at two goals.

• Despite their best efforts neither team could find a way to break the deadlock in the final 29 minutes, resulting in a 2-2 draw.

Inside the Numbers:

• Matheus Pelissari recorded his first collegiate goal and assist in today's game. 

• With their 2-2 draw this afternoon, the Vikings improved their record to 7-0-1 in their last eight matchups against the Falcons, a streak that spans six seasons.

Up Next:

The Vikings head to Wenham, Massachusetts on Wednesday, September 25 where they will face their northshore foe, Gordon College, for a 7p.m. kickoff.