The UCLA men’s soccer team played to a 0-0 draw against No. 18 Kentucky on Monday at the Bell Soccer Complex in Lexington, Kentucky. This match marked the first meeting between the two programs.
UCLA recorded 10 shots during the game, with four on target. The Bruins’ defense limited Kentucky to three shots on goal, all of which were saved by UCLA goalkeeper Ryan Tiltack. Oliver Roche and Tamir Ratoviz each took two shots for UCLA, while Tiltack finished with three saves.
Both teams had opportunities to score in the first half. Kentucky nearly took an early lead four minutes into the match, but Tiltack made a save to keep the game level. Shortly after, Shakir Nixon attempted a free kick for UCLA that was blocked by Kentucky’s goalkeeper before reaching the net.
In the 32nd minute, Solans Ormo forced another save from Kentucky’s Sebastian Conlon after being played through on goal. Conlon’s stop kept the game scoreless at halftime.
During the second half, Sean Sent of UCLA hit the crossbar with a shot from outside the box in the 54th minute. Philip Naef followed up with another strong chance less than two minutes later after intercepting a pass and dribbling past a defender; his shot was deflected out for a corner by Conlon.
Neither side managed to break through, resulting in a goalless draw.
The Bruins will return home to face LMU on September 7 at Sullivan Field in Los Angeles. The match is scheduled for 4 p.m. PT and will be broadcast on ESPN+.
