Delhi, N.Y. - Under the lights for their season home opener, the SUNY Delhi men's soccer team secured a 0-0 tie against the Hawks of Hartwick on Friday evening, as they shut out Hartwick in a defensive battle. Sophomore Salvatore Meloni contributed a strong performance to start his 2024 campaign, earning the shutout and recording 7 saves. 

The first half consisted of a back-and-forth contest that saw the Hawks with the better of the opportunities. Despite the initial pressure from the Hawks, the Broncos displayed a reputable defensive showing anchored by a young starting defensive line of sophomores Garrett Gill, Ryan Friar, and Jared Daragjati. 

As the time got later into the second half with the intensity rising, the Broncos had elevated their level of play. The team began to build some momentum and create some chances in the attacking third behind the presence of sophomore Roberto Velasquez-Osorio. 2023 All-conference players and team captains midfielders Matt Serrao and Erik Kleczkowski contributed with positive games of their own. 

The Broncos move to 0-0-1 and will next play Elmira at home on Wednesday, Sept. 4 at 4 p.m. Hartwick similarly moves to 0-0-1 on the season and next plays Morrisville on Sept. 3 at home.