NEWARK, DE -- The University of Delaware men’s soccer team opened its 2005 Colonial Athletic Association schedule with a 0-0 tie against Northeastern University on Friday night at Delaware Mini-Stadium.

Neither team was able to get much flow going offensively, and the choppy pace of play resulted in only 18 shots for the game, with Northeastern (0-5-3, 0-0-1 CAA) outshooting the Hens (1-4-3, 0-0-1 CAA) 12-6.

Both teams had golden opportunities to win the game in regulation. With 31 minutes left in the second half Delaware’s T.C. Young’s header from only a few yards out was snagged out the air by Northeastern goalkeeper Sergio Saccoccio. Nearly 15 minutes later Northeastern had its best chance to take the lead when Ray Dinizio’s shot eluded UD goalie Taylor Thames, but the ball hit the left post and bounced right back to Thames who covered up to end the threat.

The Blue Hens had the best chance to win the game in overtime when Sobhan Tadjalli broke in alone on Saccoccio, but but his shot was blocked and the follow up was cleared away by Northeastern defenders. Saccoccio made three saves for the shutout while Thames also made three saves for the Hens. The game was Thames second consecutive shutout, and his third on the season.

The Hens will return to action on Sunday when they travel to Hofstra for a 1 p.m. match with the Pride.

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