ROCKVILLE, MD — The Howard Community College men's soccer team played Montgomery College to a 0-0 draw Thursday afternoon in a tightly contested match. The two talented teams showed off a grueling battle in the midfield with excellent goalkeeping providing the highlights of the entertaining match.
The Dragons, who entered the match with an 8-1-2 record, were held without a goal despite putting four of their six shots on target. Yeabsira Tesfaye led Howard with two shots on goal, while Lucas Britos and Angel Giron-Ramos each added a shot on target.
Howard goalkeeper Julian Gugino turned in a strong performance, recording 10 saves to preserve the shutout. Gugino was particularly busy in the second half, making nine saves as Montgomery increased the pressure as Gugino made several flashy diving stops.
Montgomery finished with a 27-6 advantage in shots and earned nine corner kicks compared with none for Howard. Despite the pressure, the Dragons' defense and Gugino kept Montgomery off the scoreboard for all 90 minutes.
Howard had several opportunities of its own. Britos forced a save in the 15th minute, while Tesfaye tested Montgomery goalkeeper Pavlo Shulga in the 36th minute. Tesfaye again put a shot on target in the 79th minute, and Howard's final opportunity came in the 89th minute when a team shot was saved by Shulga.
The Dragons return home Saturday, October 2 when they host Garrett College at 2:30 PM. This game was originally scheduled for early in the season at Garrett with logistical issues forcing the change in date and venue.
