Following a dominant non-conference run to open 2023, the University of St. Thomas men's soccer team opens conference play this Sunday primed for a huge season. The Celts (6-0-1) are one of four unbeaten teams in the conference, with their only draw coming against Division II St. Edward's. They also boast a high national ranking, sitting at No. 10* in the United Soccer Coaches Top 25 poll, joining Trinity (No. 14*) as the only ranked teams from the SCAC.
"The non-conference schedule has prepared us for the gauntlet of the SCAC," Head Coach Ian Clerihew added. "We are driven to perform at a high level each match, and I'm eager to see how we put it together!"
Offensive Force
The Celts have done major damage in their seven matches so far, tied for the fewest in the SCAC. Despite the match total, the team leads the conference in total goals, assists and points. Forwards Taty Aleman and Daniel Castro lead the unit. Aleman, who already has one conference player of the week award this season, leads the conference in several categories, highlighted by his nine goals (7th in all of DIII), 21 points, 31 shots and an amazing five game-winners. Castro ranks top three as well with his five goals and 13 points. He also has the only game-winner not in Aleman's collection, all while missing a game earlier in the season.
Brick Wall
Not to be outdone, the Celts' defense has been in lockdown mode all season. Goalkeeper Cristo Gayoso ranks second in the conference with a GAA of 0.50 and a save percentage of .875, all while starting every game for UST so far. He's anchored four shutouts so far and kept the Celts' offense comfortable as they built leads early. Angel Ramirez has been a consistent steadying factor for the defense as well, as one of two defenders to play all seven matches and chipping in a pair of assists on offense as well.
UST looks to build on their great start in conference play, beginning this Sunday against Colorado College at 1 PM in SaberCats Stadium in Houston. Come out to support your Celts in action as they take their shot at the SCAC title this year!