Hackettstown, N.J.: The Centenary University men's soccer team opened Atlantic East Conference play with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Immaculata on Saturday afternoon at J.E. Reeves Jr. Field.

The Cyclones (3-7-1, 0-0-1 AEC) created chances early, including a penalty kick in the 3rd minute by Harison Samoya Lopez, but the attempt was denied. Centenary continued to press in the opening half, recording six shots, but Immaculata keeper stood tall with three first-half saves.

In the second half, Immaculata turned up the pressure, firing 10 of their 12 total shots, but Centenary's back line and goalkeeper tandem kept the match level. Kevin Velasquez Mejia started and made one save in the first half, while Christian Ruiz entered after halftime and came up with a season-high 8 saves to secure the shutout.

Centenary finished with 11 shots, five on goal, led by Ohene Yiadom, Alex Laoudis, and Samayoa Lopez, who each forced saves from the Immaculata keeper. Defenders Brian Osorio and Christian Trujillo anchored the Cyclones' back line, helping limit high-quality chances.

Both sides had opportunities in the closing minutes, but neither could find the breakthrough as the contest ended scoreless. The result marked Centenary's second shutout of the season and Ruiz's first clean sheet.

The Cyclones return to action on Wednesday, Oct. 8, when they travel to Neumann University for another Atlantic East Conference matchup. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:00 p.m.