Delaware, Ohio – A second-half strike from sophomore Emmett O'Brien proved to be the difference as No. 3 Denison Big Red men's soccer earned a 1–0 road win over Ohio Wesleyan Battling Bishops men's soccer on Saturday night at Jay Martin Soccer Complex.
The victory keeps Denison unbeaten on the season at 10-0-2 overall and improves its conference record to 2-0-1, while Ohio Wesleyan falls to 5-3-4 (1-1-0).
After a scoreless first half, the Big Red finally broke through in the 71st minute when Emmett O'Brien buried his third goal of the season off a corner from Kameron Kist. The ball dropped right in front of him inside the box, and with his back to goal, O'Brien spun 180 degrees and unleashed a rocket into the tiniest gap between the goalkeeper and the near post to put Denison ahead. That lone goal would hold as the game-winner as Denison's defense locked down the Bishops, not allowing a single shot on goal all night.
The Big Red outshot the Bishops 11-4, including 5-0 on frame, and held an 8-2 advantage in corner kicks. Despite a physical battle that saw a combined 31 fouls and three yellow cards, Denison remained composed down the stretch to secure the shutout.
With the win, Denison remains unbeaten as the conference race heats up. The Big Red will look to extend their streak on Wednesday, Oct. 15, when they travel to Greencastle, Ind., to face DePauw University at 4 p.m. in NCAC action.