SAINT LOUIS — Backed by a strong defensive performance, top-seeded Saint Louis earned a 2-0 shutout victory over No. 8 La Salle on Friday in the Atlantic 10 Championship Quarterfinals at Hermann Stadium.
The Billikens (8-2-6) advanced to the semifinals with the victory, where their opponent is yet to be determined. The eight-team tournament will be re-seeded following the conclusion of Saturday’s quarterfinal matches.
As the championship’s top seed, Saint Louis maintains home field advantage in each match it plays. The Billikens will host their semifinal match on Wednesday, Nov. 12 at 8 p.m. ET.
Both defenses fulfilled their responsibilities in the first half, neither team getting on the board. Saint Louis could only muster two shots on goal but held the Explorers to just one shot on frame.
The Billikens broke the tie with 15 minutes remaining in the second half. Freshman forward Theo Franca got to a loose ball in the penalty box, knocking it past the opposing goalkeeper to put Saint Louis in front.
With La Salle pushing forward in hopes of tying the match, Saint Louis looked for an insurance goal. The Billikens got one in the 85th minute, as Tanner Anderson provided the header on a well-crafted set piece.
Jeremi Abonnel picked up the clean sheet for the Billikens, his ninth of the season. The graduate goalkeeper made four saves.