ST. PAUL, Minn. (8-20-26) - Junior
Johnny Strickler connected on a pair of goals off feeds from sophomore
Thero Mitchell III as Detroit Mercy shut out St. Thomas, 2-0, to secure the Titans' first season-opening road win since 2020 on Thursday afternoon. Junior
Colin Monroe posted his second consecutive season-opening shutout, making one save behind the backline that didn't allow a shot on goal until the final minute of the game. UDM's victory also handed the Tommies their first home loss after going undefeated (4-0-4) last season at South Field.
"That was a really good performance to start the season," said Head Coach
Nate Kopunek. "We had a great preseason leading into this match that tested us, which definitely prepared us for this opening match."
"I am extremely proud of the guys for staying locked in for a full 90 minutes, handling some adversity thrown their way, and still securing three points plus a clean sheet today. Next up, back at home vs Adrain!"
Both teams' defenses were on point as they played to a scoreless stalemate in the first half with just a shot each.
In the 62nd minute, Mitchell III headed a cross in front of the goal line that made its way through traffic to Strickler, who was able to put home the loose ball, giving UDM a 1-0 lead.
The duo struck again in the 75th minute as Mitchell III took the ball down the right side into the box and slotted a pass that hit a St. Thomas defender's foot and landed right to Stickler, who hit the volley into the back of the net for a 2-0 Titan lead.
It looked like Detroit Mercy took a 3-0 advantage as junior
Samuel Speen placed a free kick into the left upper 90, but the ball shot out quickly after hitting the support bars and was ruled no goal.
UDM returns to Titan Field for the home opener against Adrian on Monday, Aug. 24 at 6 p.m.
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