Northeastern University’s men’s soccer squad opened its season in convincing fashion, routing Holy Cross 5-0 on a crisp evening in Boston.
From the opening whistle the Huskies pressed forward, generating chances that tested the Crusaders’ defense and kept the scoreboard ticking.
Koç’s early strike sets the tone
Freshman forward Kortay Koç announced his arrival with a brace, the first coming after a calmly converted penalty in the 12th minute that sent a ripple through the crowd.
His second goal arrived just before halftime, a well‑timed finish that capped a dominant first half and left Holy Cross scrambling to respond.
Between the bursts of offense, junior goalkeeper Brady Elmblad stood firm, making three crucial saves in the opening half and later preserving the clean sheet with a composed second‑half performance that marked his first career shutout.
Flowers and Schmidt find the net
In the dying moments of the match, junior forward Bryce Flowers tucked away his sixth career goal, a late‑game strike that underscored the team’s depth.
Midway through the second half, sophomore midfielder Will Schmidt celebrated his first collegiate goal, a milestone that added to the night’s growing excitement.
The freshmen connection also produced a goal in the 83rd minute, when Tate Duax linked up with Ethan Kang to register the side’s first freshmen‑scored tally of the season.
A early test awaits
Northeastern will next travel to face Stonehill College on August 23 at 1 p.m., a matchup that promises another early‑season gauge of the Huskies’ momentum.
The victory not only highlights the team’s offensive firepower but also signals a defensive foundation that could prove pivotal as the schedule unfolds across the CAA and Patriot League.