POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. – Marist freshman Brandon Curtis’ first half goal proved to be the game winner as the Red Foxes (5-2-2, MAAC 1-0-0) defeated Manhattan (1-5-1, MAAC 0-1-0) 2-0 at Tenney Stadium in both teams Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference opener.

The first half saw both teams have solid but not overly threatening chances until the 42nd minute. Sophomore midfielder Mario Vukadinovic took advantage of a turnover near midfield and executed a high through pass to a streaking Curtis who then chipped the goalkeeper to give the Red Foxes a 1-0 lead, a lead that would end up being insurmountable.

In the second half the Red Foxes upped the pressure and were able to tack on another goal in the 59th minute. The second goal came from a corner kick by senior Matty Berman who swung the ball towards the near post and connected with the head of junior midfielderConnor Preece.

The Jaspers finished the game with some late shot attempts and good pressure but it wasn’t enough to crack the Red Foxes back line and ultimately put one past freshman goalkeeper Mark Rajovic. Rajovic finished the game with six saves. Manhattan out shot Marist 4-3 in the first half and both teams ended tied in shots with 10 by the end of the game.

The Red Foxes hit the road to take on Fairfield in their second MAAC game of the season on Saturday, October 4.