Vikings Win MASCAC Opener 2-1 Over Fitchburg State

SALEM, Mass. – Salem State opened up Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference (MASCAC) play with a 2-1 victory over Fitchburg State on Friday night at Elliot Field. The Vikings had shutout the Falcons in their four previous meetings dating back to 2018, outscoring their opponent 10-0 during that span. Salem State improves to 4-1-1 on the year and 1-0 in the MASCAC. Fitchburg State goes to 2-4 and 0-1 in the league.

Aaron O'Toole put the Vikings on the board early, heading home a corner from Brendan Walsh, past goalie Luke Speers just 1:33 into the game. Later, Dylan Senra deposited a free kick over the outstretched arms of Speers for the Vikings' second goal in the 15^th minute.

Salem State's defense did the rest, holding the Falcons without a shot on net in the first half while allowing just four shots to reach keeper Jonathan Chasse. Chasse was looking for his second shutout of the season, but Anthony Oliveira-Dalicandro scored for Fitchburg State, off a corner in the 74^th minute, drawing the Falcons to within a goal.

However, the it was not enough as Salem State held on for a one-goal victory.

Chasse made three saves in the win while Speers stopped eights shots for Fitchburg State. Alexander Carvalho played the final four minutes in goal for the Falcons and was credited with a save.