TYLER, TEXAS - UT Tyler men's soccer earned a 1-0 road victory over Texas A&M International on Wednesday night at Dustdevil Field, using a late goal from Dennis Nyame and a shutout performance from Niclas Becker to secure the Lone Star Conference win.
The Patriots improved to 4-5-4 overall and 2-4-1 in conference play with the victory, building momentum heading into Saturday's Senior Night matchup against St. Edward's.
UT Tyler controlled much of the attacking action in the opening half, recording three shots while limiting Texas A&M International to just one attempt. Luis Martinez and Caden Naizer each tested the Dustdevils' defense, but neither side found the back of the net before halftime. The Patriots also earned two corner kicks in the first 45 minutes as they continued to search for an opening goal.
The match remained scoreless into the second half, with both teams looking for the breakthrough. Becker and the Patriots' defense stood firm as Texas A&M International increased its pressure after the break. Becker recorded all four of his saves in the second half, turning away several attempts to keep the Dustdevils off the scoreboard.
UT Tyler continued to push forward in search of the decisive goal, generating eight shots after halftime. Martinez, Owen Dakin, Dyego Madrigal and Naizer all contributed attempts as the Patriots worked to break through the opposing defense.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 88th minute. After a series of attacking opportunities late in the match, Nyame found the back of the net at the 87:03 mark to give the Patriots a 1-0 advantage. The goal was Nyame's second of the season and ultimately proved to be the game-winner.
UT Tyler's defense held the lead over the final minutes, limiting Texas A&M International to one final shot that sailed over the goal. Becker finished with four saves in the shutout, while the Patriots held an 11-8 advantage in total shots and put four attempts on target.
The victory gives UT Tyler a valuable conference result as the Patriots return home to close out the week. UT Tyler will host St. Edward's on Saturday at Citizens First Bank-Perkins Soccer Complex for Senior Night.
