MEMPHIS, Tenn. --- An early goal from Romain Spailier and another clean sheet from Simen Havig lifted Jacksonville University men's soccer to a 1-0 road victory over Memphis on Tuesday night at the Billy J. Murphy Track & Soccer Complex.
The win was Jacksonville's first over Memphis in program history and moved the Dolphins to 4-3-2 on the season.
Jacksonville wasted little time finding the breakthrough. Just 33 seconds into the match, Dante Wright connected with Spailier, who put the Dolphins in front with his third goal of the season. The assist was Wright's third of the year and his second in as many matches after setting up Quinten Koster's goal at Central Arkansas on Saturday.
From there, Jacksonville's defense held off a Memphis side that entered the night averaging more than two goals per match.
Havig was tested throughout the opening half, making four saves to preserve the one-goal advantage. Jacksonville continued to create chances on the other end, with Wright putting three of his four shots on frame.
Memphis increased the pressure after halftime, firing 11 shots over the final 45 minutes. The Tigers came inches from equalizing twice, hitting the woodwork in the 54th and 59th minutes, but the Jacksonville back line held firm.
Havig added two more saves in the second half to finish with six on the night and secure his second shutout of the season. Coach Simmons praised junior goalkeeper Simen Havig, calling him "the best keeper in the conference."
"He manages the tempo of the game well, he has great communication, he's an outstanding goalkeeper, and we're lucky to have him," Simmons said.
The result continued a strong season away from Southern Oak Stadium for the Dolphins, who remain unbeaten in true road matches at 3-0-2. Three of Jacksonville's four victories this season have now come on the road.
Tuesday's match was just the second meeting between Jacksonville and Memphis. The two sides played to a scoreless draw last season in Jacksonville, with Havig making four saves in that contest. Through 180 minutes against the Tigers, Havig has now made 10 saves without allowing a goal.
Jacksonville also handed Memphis its first home loss of the season. The Tigers entered Tuesday 2-0-1 at home and 4-1-3 overall.
Next Up
Jacksonville continues its road stretch on Tuesday, Oct. 6, traveling to Atlanta to face Georgia State. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m.
