Men's Soccer is Set for First Road Conference Match at RMU

ROCHESTER, Mich. - The Golden Grizzlies men's soccer squad returns to the pitch this Saturday as they head east to take on Robert Morris (RMU).

Oakland has started conference play in a good rhythm, beating Cleveland State 2-0 on Sept. 9 and tying NIU 1-1 on Sept. 12. Through the two conference matches, Oakland has allowed just one goal, along with just five shots on goal from its opponents. The Golden Grizzlies' defense has been suffocating for opponents, as they've formed an identity defensively while also managing to score the second-most goals (12) of any Horizon League team.

Stephen Gilbert has been a key offensive piece, scoring a goal and earning three assists already this season, tying for the third-most assists in the conference. Cal Kurzawa, Grant Mateer and Andriy Bilous complete the list of Golden Grizzlies with at least one goal and one assist this season, as a threat to score can come from anywhere on the field for Oakland.

The Colonials come into the contest with a 4-2-1 record, losing to Mercyhurst 1-0 in their last contest after going five consecutive games without a loss. In one conference match thus far, RMU beat Detroit Mercy convincingly, 5-2, on Sept. 9.

RMU, like Oakland, has 12 goals this season and leads the conference with 15 assists as it emphasizes ball movement in its attack. The Colonials also are a well-rounded team, having allowed just seven goals this season, the second-fewest in the conference.

Junior forward Anelson Azard leads RMU with four goals, making him just one of four players in the conference to reach that mark.

Oakland has never lost to Robert Morris in a regular-season match in nine all-time meetings. Last season's match ended in a 1-1 draw in Rochester. The Golden Grizzlies look to build on a three-game road winning streak in Moon Township as well in this matchup.

The matchup of perennial Horizon League Championship teams takes place on Saturday, Sept. 19 at 3 p.m. in Moon Township, Pa., and will be streamed on ESPN+.

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Players Mentioned

#27 Andriy Bilous: F; 6' 3"; Junior

#9 Stephen Gilbert: F; 6' 3"; Junior

#12 Cal Kurzawa: MF; 6' 1"; Redshirt Freshman

#21 Grant Mateer: MF; 5' 9"; Sophomore

Players Mentioned

#27 Andriy Bilous
: 6' 3"; Junior
: F

#9 Stephen Gilbert
: 6' 3"; Junior
: F

#12 Cal Kurzawa
: 6' 1"; Redshirt Freshman
: MF

#21 Grant Mateer
: 5' 9"; Sophomore
: MF