Second place in the Atlantic 10 was up for grabs at Sports Backers Wednesday night. VCU took flight against Saint Joseph’s where speed outperformed physicality.

The first 45 minutes of futbol was a rather interesting sight at Sports Backers. Moments after kick-off, Saint Joseph’s organized in a more defensive shape looking to bully their way by VCU physically. The Rams were not surprised by this tactic playing with a calm mentality while moving the ball around the pitch without urgency.

As the match continued, the physicality was raised by the Hawks. Saint Joe’s committed nine fouls in the first half; however, VCU remained in sync. Whether it was a foul in frustration or a tackle that had gone wrong, VCU continued pushing the pace along with the ball.

Luc Fatton and Eli Lockaby were able to create chances for the Black & Gold. As Saint Joseph’s defense started to slow down, VCU midfielders amplified the pressure with numerous strikes towards goal. Rafael Andrade Santos made good contact on a few chances outside the 18 but none were able to hit the target.

In the 31’ minute VCU struck the opening goal thanks to Jorge Herranz. Steve Dal Molin made his way towards the box from the right side. His cross found Herranz directly in front of goal for the header to collect his fifth goal of the season and a 1-0 lead.

Near the final moments of the half, VCU’s Lyndsey Moreland was shown a yellow card in the 43’ minute. Even with that, the Rams finished the 1^st half ahead 1-0 over Saint Joseph’s.

Just seven minutes into the second half, Luc Fatton doubled VCU’s lead. Off the through ball from Dakota Barnathan, Fatton was able to collect inside the penalty area and strike a low shot rolling pass Greg O’Connell into the net. Fatton now has 6 goals on the season and the Rams increased their lead to 2-0.

Multiple midfielders for VCU kept the Hawks at bay. Along with Santos were Gerald Vargas and Francesco Amorosino giving Saint Joseph’s fits with their speed and passing ability across the pitch.

The Hawks once again attempted to play physical defense against the Rams leading to fouls and referee conferences aplenty between players.

VCU in simple terms was enjoying the game of futbol. Nearly everything from attack to defense went the Black & Gold way on the night. Saint Joseph’s was stuck in a hard place between a productive line of defense and VCU’s overall speed.

The Rams took care of business and their reward was all three points at Sports Backers with their 2-0 win over Saint Joseph’s. This victory moves the Rams into second place in the Atlantic 10.  VCU now has 10 points and is 3-1-1 in conference play.

VCU hits the road on Saturday, October 22nd, and the Rams will battle Massachusetts in Atlantic 10 play. Kick-off is set for 1 PM.

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Mark Turner

Mark graduated from VCU in 2014 with a major in Criminal Justice and a minor in Psychology. He started as a fan of the Black & Gold in the stands his freshman year. Mark was known as "Kazie" for his charismatic fandom with the VCU's student organization the Rowdy Rams. While at VCU he gained experience in sports media with WVCW on a sports radio show called Rowdy Radio. Following graduation, Mark continued crafting his social media skills with the Richmond Kickers while also handling VCU coverage. He is a true fan of the Rams and vocally passionate on and off camera. After the final whistle, you can probably find him at local RVA bar or brewery enjoying a drink and conversation.