Boys Soccer – Amato scores game-winner vs Nazareth, adds two more in win over Liberty as Hornets post pair of shutouts; Up next: rival Parkland on Saturday

Senior Jaeden Amato (pictured) has scored three goals in the last two games for the Hornets. Photo: Sal Verrastro

RECAP >> The Emmaus boys soccer team picked up a pair of shutout wins in a 24-hour period at home at Memorial Field as the Hornets defeated both Nazareth 1-0 and Liberty 5-0.

The two victories improved head coach John Cari’s team to 8-0-2 in the EPC and 8-0-3 overall.

In a rematch of last year’s District XI Class 4A title game, senior Jaeden Amato scored his fourth goal of the season in the 27th minute as Emmaus beat Nazareth on Wednesday.

Amato blasted a direct kick past Blue Eagles senior goalie Nolan Booth for the lone goal of the game for the Hornets who outshot Nazareth 10-2.

Defensively, Emmaus posted its sixth clean sheet of the season. Senior goalie Ty Blieler came up with two saves in the game, including a key one late in the second half as Nazareth (7-2 EPC/8-2 overall) was trying for the equalizer.

The Hornets followed up the win over the Blue Eagles with yet another stellar defensive performance as they blanked Liberty 5-0 on Thursday night.

Amato once again led the way with a pair of goals (Nos. 5 and 6), while sophomore Ryan Kiernan also found the back of the net with his team-leading ninth goal of the season.

Junior Ryan Latchford also scored in the win and sophomore Eli Pennell scored his first career varsity goal. Senior Holden Brown had a game-high two assists. In goal, junior Max McGrath posted the shutout.

Emmaus held Liberty without a shot in the contest (11-0) and had a 6-0 advantage in corners.

The Hornets will close out the week Saturday at 2 p.m. as they host rival Parkland. The game will be carried LIVE on www.easternpasportsnetwork.com beginning at 1:45 p.m.

To stay updated, follow the team on social media: (Twitter) @EmmSoccer, @Emmaussports and (Facebook) Emmaus boys soccer

Emmaus 5, Liberty 0

Lib – 0-0 – 0

Em – 1-4 – 5

Em goals –  Jaeden Amato 2, Ryan Kiernan, Eli Pennell, Ryan Latchford

Em assists – Holden Brown 2, Blaise Verrastro

Em saves – Max McGrath 0

Emmaus 1, Nazareth 0

Naz – 0-0 – 0

Em – 1-0 – 1

Em goals – Jaeden Amato

Em saves – Ty Bleiler 2