Nichols College Athletics

WESTFIELD, Mass. (9/1/2026) - The Nichols College men's soccer team opened the 2026 season in thrilling fashion Tuesday evening, earning a 1-0 shutout victory over Westfield State University at Alumni Field.

After a scoreless opening 45 minutes, the Bison broke through early in the second half when sophomore Alexandro Montreuil found the back of the net in the 60th minute. Montreuil's first goal of the season proved to be the difference, as Nichols' defense held firm over the final 30 minutes to secure the season-opening victory.

The two sides battled through a tightly contested first half, with Westfield State holding a slight 3-2 edge in shots. Nichols goalkeeper Anthony Grguric made one save in the opening frame to keep the contest scoreless heading into halftime.

Nichols came out with increased pressure following the break, putting three shots on goal in the opening 15 minutes of the second half. Shea Ullo nearly opened the scoring in the 59th minute, forcing a save from Westfield State goalkeeper Luke Theroux, before Montreuil delivered just over a minute later.

Westfield State continued to apply pressure in the closing minutes, finishing the night with an 11-9 advantage in shots. The Owls earned a penalty kick in the 79th minute, but Grguric came up with the biggest save of the night, denying Charlie Anischik from the spot and preserving the Nichols lead.

Grguric finished the night with four saves en route to his first shutout of the season. The Bison back line also stood tall throughout the final minutes, with Maxwell Abroms and Tommy Crenwick each playing all 90 minutes as Nichols limited Westfield State to just four shots on goal.

Nichols finished with five shots on target, led by Zach O'Meara with two. Montreuil added two shots, including his game-winning tally, while Ullo recorded an assist on the deciding goal. The Bison also held a 2-2 deadlock in corner kicks and overcame a 17-11 disadvantage in fouls to preserve the shutout.

With the victory, Nichols opens the 2026 campaign at 1-0, while Westfield State falls to 0-1.

The Bison return to action on Thursday, September 3rd when they take on Mitchell College. Game start is set for 3:00 PM at Alumni Field.