A Strong Start
The Princeton men's soccer squad opened its 2026 campaign on a crisp evening at Roberts Stadium, where the Tigers faced off against the nation's third‑ranked Portland Pilots. The match served as a test of grit and cohesion, with the home side looking to build on the momentum of a promising preseason.
The breakthrough arrived in the 74th minute when freshman forward Noah Hammerschmidt slipped past the defense and struck a low shot that curled into the net, marking his first collegiate goal. Just four minutes later, fellow rookie Kevin Kelley added his name to the scoresheet, finishing a quick counter‑attack that sealed a 2‑0 lead.
Key Performances
Both goals were created by senior midfielder Bardia Hormozi, whose vision and precise passing carved out the openings. Hormozi finished the night with two assists and four points, underscoring his role as the team's early catalyst.
Princeton outshot Portland 10‑7, including six shots on goal compared with just one for the Pilots. Goalkeeper Andrew Samuels made a single save, preserving a clean sheet and recording his first shutout of the season.
The defensive unit held firm despite Portland's attempts to rally, limiting the Pilots to a solitary shot on target. Head coach's emphasis on physicality and teamwork paid dividends, as the Tigers' discipline translated into a controlled performance that bodes well for the remainder of the schedule.