Prior to Tuesday night, senior midfielder Milo Garvanian had only scored once for UNC men’s soccer. It was a match his freshman season against Pittsburgh, with the New Mexico native heading home a cross in double overtime to give Carolina the win.

Against #14 Loyola Marymount on Tuesday, Garvanian’s finishing was once again the difference in earning the Tar Heels a 2-0 win at Dorrance Field.

His goal from the penalty spot in the sixth minute put Carolina on top, while also marking the earliest lead UNC men’s soccer has held so far this season. Garvanian followed up the effort with another goal 17 minutes later, firing in a shot from outside the penalty box off assists from sophomore Yaya Bakayoko and fifth-year senior Santiago Herrera.

From there, the Carolina offense continued to pressure Loyola Marymount, tallying 11 shots to the Lions’ four shots. Goalkeeper Alec Smir ended with two saves to preserve the clean sheet, marking the Tar Heels’ eighth shutout win this fall.

Following the game, men’s soccer head coach Carolos Somoano commented on Garvanian’s first-half scoring efforts.

“We had the penalty that was really well taken, and he’s been up there quite a bit,” said Somoano. “I think it’s the same philosophy. If you keep sticking to the principles eventually, we’ll be able to execute. I’m sure it feels good.”

The win over a ranked opponent helps UNC rebound from losing two of its last three matches, which further dropped them out of national polls. Up next for Somoano’s program is a trip to Virginia Tech on Sunday, with first kick expected for 7 p.m.

 

Photo via Carolina Athletics/Jeffrey A. Camarati.


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