WILLIAMSBURG, Va. — William & Mary men's soccer secured a 2-0 victory over UNCW on Saturday at Martin Family Stadium at Albert-Daly Field. 

The Tribe broke through in the second half with two goals, while maintaining a solid defense to preserve the shutout. The Green and Gold's Ryan Eapen recorded four saves to help secure the clean sheet, contributing significantly to the win.

The first half began with both teams testing each other's defenses in a back and forth battle characterized by physical play on both sides. Despite the intense efforts, neither team could find the back of the net. W&M managed to create notable opportunities, including a shot by Webb Kosich in the 20th minute that was saved by the Seahawks' goalkeeper. Max Cooper also had a promising chance in the 38th minute, but again, a save was made.

Throughout the half, the Tribe's defense, anchored by Eapen in goal, held strong against UNCW's offensive efforts. Eapen made a crucial save in the 34th minute to keep the match level. The half concluded scoreless, setting the stage for a competitive second half.

The second half of play began with the Tribe showing energy and maintaining pressure on offense. 

Thor Sigurjonsson generated early attempts, including a shot in the 46th minute. Gabe Ruitenberg was inches from breaking the scoreless tie in the 63rd minute, firing a header from the middle of the box that the keeper was just able to get to. 

However, it was Kosich who broke the deadlock in the 66th minute with a goal assisted by Sam Delgado, following a counterattack that started with a pass from Diogo Branco. Delgado's shot was saved but set up Kosich for the finish, giving W&M a 1-0 lead.

As the half progressed, the Green and Gold continued to create opportunities, with Ruitenberg and Delgado testing the Seahawks' goalkeeper. 

In the 88th minute, Cooper extended the advantage to 2-0 after receiving a long pass from Bryce Smith. Cooper expertly finished the play from 40 yards out with the UNCW keeper out of position. The game concluded with W&M securing a 2-0 victory, having effectively capitalized on key scoring chances while maintaining a solid defensive front.

Kosich scored the game-winning goal for the Tribe, converting both of his shots into shots on goal. Eapen recorded a shutout with four saves, facing 16 shots in the match. Smith contributed an assist, helping set up one of the team's goals. Cooper added a goal, finishing with three shots on target.

Looking ahead, the Green and Gold will host Campbell on October 11. The match is set for 7 p.m. in Williamsburg, Va., as they aim to secure a victory on their home turf.