On Oct. 24, the UDC men’s soccer team showcased its own version of turning potential into power on its home field as the Firebirds clinched their fourth consecutive East Coast Conference (ECC) playoff berth with a 6-0 victory over Roberts Wesleyan University. Forward Joao De Souza De Aquino scored three goals to lead the Firebirds on Senior Day, while goalkeeper Lorenzo Herrera recorded six saves for his eighth shutout of the season, setting a program record.
UDC took control early, scoring three goals in the opening 10 minutes. De Souza De Aquino opened the scoring in the fourth minute off an assist from Zachary Parker. Alexander Moody-Stuart doubled the lead five minutes later, finishing a setup from Victorio Venaría and Joshua Thompson. In the 10th minute, De Souza De Aquino converted a penalty kick to give the Firebirds a 3-0 lead. He completed his hat trick in the 51st minute, extending UDC’s advantage to four goals.
The Firebirds continued to apply pressure throughout the second half. Isaiah Daniel converted another penalty kick in the 66th minute before Marius Elmose scored the final goal in the 75th minute off an assist from Aaron Sachse. Herrera’s standout performance in goal highlighted both his consistency and the Firebirds’ defensive strength. With the win, UDC improved to 8-5-4 overall and 3-3-2 in conference play, securing a postseason berth for the fourth straight year.
The match and full team effort were a fitting celebration for the senior class. The Firebirds now turn their attention to the ECC playoffs.