Pirates Close Out Regular Season With Senior Day Victory Over Villanova

Published: Saturday, November 2, 2024

by Thomas Kvalø

SOUTH ORANGE, N.J. – The Seton Hall Pirates (10-5-1) stood strong on senior day, securing a 1-0 victory against the Villanova Wildcats (1-9-6) on Saturday. The Pirates played their final regular season game at Owen T. Carroll Field on Saturday, while Villanova continued to struggle, remaining winless in BIG EAST play this season.

The game began with a frustrating start for the Pirates, who maintained possession but couldn’t create scoring opportunities. That changed in the 15th minute when Mans Saebbo broke down the left wing, delivering a low cross to Sam Bjork at the back post, who slotted it into the net for a 1-0 Pirates lead.

After the goal, Seton Hall continued to pile on the pressure, forcing Villanova goalkeeper Jorge DeJesus into five saves. Sam Bjork and Jarred Smith each had strong scoring opportunities but were denied.

Despite Seton Hall’s dominance in the first half, Villanova managed to string passes together and push forward. However, their challenge was reaching effective areas, as they recorded five shots but didn’t force goalkeeper Matias Molina into any saves.

The second half was uneventful, as the Pirates focused on defending their lead. They controlled the tempo, content to move the ball slowly with little intent to press forward. Villanova had a few chances but never posed a serious threat to the Pirates' backline.

The key moment of the second half came in the 65th minute when Jared Smith was forced off the field with an injury. It is a significant blow for Seton Hall, as Smith has contributed nine points this season (4 goals, 1 assist). His status for the BIG EAST Tournament remains unconfirmed, but the Pirates are hopeful he’ll be ready to return.

The remainder of the half was a tight affair, with neither team coming close to scoring. Seton Hall defended effectively and executed their game plan well—an encouraging sign as they prepare for the challenges ahead in the BIG EAST Tournament.

With this victory, Seton Hall secures the No. 6 seed in the conference standings. The Pirates will head to Queens for the BIG EAST Tournament, facing St. John’s on Nov. 9 at 5 p.m. Their last meeting was a close one, with Seton Hall falling 1-0 to St. John’s at Owen T. Carroll Field back on Oct. 23.

Thomas Kvalø can be reached at thomas.kval@student.shu.edu. 

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