Since taking over in June, Ziggy Korytoski has tried his hardest to sell his program.
Since taking over in June, Ziggy Korytoski has tried his hardest to sell his program.
Now the University of Hawaii at Hilo men’s soccer coach has something new and tangible to offer the home fans: a winning streak.
Ikaika Fuerte scored early in Wednesday’s match in Laie, Oahu, and the Vulcans held off BYU-Hawaii 1-0.
After enduring a 20-match winless streak dating back to last season, UH-Hilo (2-7-1, 2-6-1 Pacific West Conference) won its second consecutive match and equaled its win total of last season.
“Guys are working hard, growing and buying in,” Korytoski said. “Looks like things are kind of turning.”
It comes at the perfect time.
UH-Hilo opens a season-ending five-match homestand on Saturday against Chaminade.
The Vulcans were at St. Joseph High School on Tuesday, signing autographs and giving demonstrations as part of their ongoing “Student of the Game” program. Korytoski’s No. 1 goal is community outreach, but as an added benefit he hopes students are encouraged to come to games.
A day later, UH-Hilo perhaps did an even better job of promoting itself.
Nothing sells like winning.
Fuerte scored his second goal of the season in the sixth minute, dribbling from center midfield and chipping the ball from 18 yards out. Goalkeeper Yonha Adrabi and emerging center fullbacks Morgan Popp and Aaron Sanchez helped the lead stand up.
UH-Hilo had a goal disallowed later in the first half.
“I’m really not sure why they called it,” Korytoski said.
Adrabi was credited with nine saves. Korytoski cited Popp and Sanchez as stabilizing forces on the back line.
“About three or four of Yonha’s saves were tough chances; other than that it was pretty clean back there,” Korytoski said. “Morgan and Aaron are really coming on and doing a great job.”
The Seasiders (3-6-1, 2-6-1) held a 17-10 advantage in shots.
The Lady Vulcans (3-9, 1-8) lost 3-2 in overtime.
“An unlucky break,” UH-Hilo coach Unity Beddingfield said of an overtime goal off a corner kick. “I thought we dominated play.”