Hokie ClubBLACKSBURG – For the second match in a row, Virginia Tech looked the better side in the second half and found an equalizer to grab a result at Thompson Field.
It was Marcos Escoe's turn on Sunday night, as the freshman forward scored a 62nd-minute header to secure Tech a second draw in as many games. The goal comes in the Costa Ricans second appearance of the season after he debuted up top in Thursday's 1-1 result against Loyola (Md.).
Noe Uwimana logged his second assist of the season, as well, in the match. Getting the starting nod for the first time in his career, Uwimana caused havoc on the right wing for most of the evening – delivering ball after ball into the box that contributed to the Hokies' 15-7 shot advantage.
It was a tale of two halves for Tech, as Davidson controlled possession for the predominant portion of the first half. The Wildcats achieved their breakthrough courtesy of a brilliant solo run from midfield by Vincent Bennage that culminated in a curling effort from outside the box into the top right corner.
That goal was the lone attempt to pass Timi Adams, who made his first career start and second appearance of the season on Sunday. The junior keeper from Atlanta, Ga. logged three saves on the evening.
Despite the score by the visitors, Tech had its opportunities in the first 45-minute block, as well. One of Uwimana's deliveries found Conor Pugh for a headed attempt in the 23rd minute that tested the keeper then a ball fell to Marco Vesterholm's feet inside the box just 10 minutes later that forced a quick save from the Davidson keeper.
However, in the second half it was all Hokies, as the hosts held an 11-2 advantage in shots through the final 45 minutes. Following Escoe's goal, Tech continued to push for the winner. Roche had a solid look in front of the frame after the Davidson keeper misjudged his collection, however the look was so unexpected that the freshman couldn't find the back of the net with his attempt. Later in the half, the Hokies were in on goal after some pestering play by Ethan Hackenberg won back the ball, but the ref called back an infraction on Davidson despite the Roche being in on goal.
With two solid results in its back pocket, Virginia Tech will open up ACC play against North Carolina on Friday night at Thompson Field. As for all regular season matches, attendance is free.Gallery: (9-3-2023) MSOC: Davidson Match