On a crisp fall afternoon in Jersey City, the Kean University men’s soccer team grabbed their first New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) win of the 2025 season. They edged out New Jersey City University (NJCU) 1-0 in a match that demanded grit and determination.
The game took place on Saturday, October 11, 2025. Kean’s Santi Arroyave delivered the only goal in the 60th minute, sealing a tense victory that really showed what perseverance can do.
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Breaking Down the Match
The big moment? Arroyave lined up for a penalty after Donte East drew a foul in the box from NJCU’s Jose Orozco. He smashed it into the upper 90, scoring his first goal as a Cougar.
That shot wasn’t just impressive—it was clutch. His calm under pressure gave Kean the edge and a story to remember.
Key Statistics Tell the Story
Sure, Kean got the win, but NJCU kept things interesting. The Gothic Knights actually outshot Kean, 19-18, and had a slight 2-1 lead in corners.
Kean, though, made their chances count and led in shots on goal, 9-6. Josser Amaya fired three shots on target, making life tough for NJCU’s back line.
Goalkeeper Juan Orozco came up big for Kean with six saves. That clean sheet? All him.
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Why This Win Matters for Kean
For Kean, this win felt huge. Their first NJAC victory lifts spirits and could set the tone for what’s next.
They don’t have long to celebrate, though. Rutgers-Newark is up next on Wednesday, and they’ll want to keep this momentum rolling.
NJCU’s Determined Effort
NJCU didn’t go quietly. They kept pressing, showing plenty of fight and a willingness to go forward all game.
Generating more total shots, they forced Kean’s defense to stay sharp. Maybe next time, that effort turns into points.
Soccer and the Spirit of Jersey City
Games like this remind you how much sports mean to a community. Locals came out, filling the stands and turning the match into a real celebration.
It’s more than just two schools facing off. It’s about Jersey City pride and giving people a reason to come together, even on a chilly afternoon.
Exploring Jersey City Beyond the Pitch
If you’re in town for a game, why not see what else Jersey City has to offer? Whether you’re here for college soccer or something bigger, there’s no shortage of things to do in Jersey City.
From waterfront dining to artsy neighborhoods, the city’s got plenty for fans and visitors. It’s worth wandering a bit.
Planning Your Visit
Thinking about making the trip? You’ll want to look into where to stay in Jersey City.
There are boutique spots and top-rated Jersey City hotels that keep you close to the action. Getting to the city’s easy too—hop on a train, a ferry, or just drive in.
Discovering the City Districts
Each of Jersey City’s city districts has its own flavor. You’ll find unique restaurants, quirky shops, and a bunch of cultural experiences that feel totally different from one block to the next.
The match venue sits right among neighborhoods where local pride runs deep. Residents here mix their love for soccer with a genuine appreciation for the area’s rich history—honestly, you can feel it just walking around.
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Here is the source article for this story: Penalty Kick Vaults Men’s Soccer Past NJCU