The University of Mary Washington men's soccer team edged Christopher Newport University, 9-8 in penalty kicks, after a scoreless draw in the first round of the Capital Athletic Conference Tournament on Saturday at the UMW Battleground Complex. The Eagles will advance to the CAC Semifinals on Wednesday at top seeded Salisbury University.

Both sides had their chances throughout the contest, including many shots that nailed off of the post and crossbar. It was a physical match throughout, totaling 40 fouls between the sides, and two yellow cards. The Captains led in corner kicks, 4-1.  UMW goalkeeper Matthew Spencer logged three saves, while CNU goalkeeper Nolan Mann had one.

In the shootout, the Captains took an early 3-2 lead. A score from Gary Foley, a save from Matthew Spencer, and a score from Jacob Burke would put the Eagles up 4-3. UMW and CNU went back and forth the rest of the way until they reached a 7-7 tie. The next 6 kickers failed to find the net. UMW's Jack Nelson ended the drought and put the Eagles up 8-7. After a goal from CNU to tie the score at 8-8, Colin Travis scored to give the Eagles a 9-8 lead. Matthew Spencer made another spectacular save to secure the victory. 

In the win, sophomore goalkeeper Matthew Spencer recorded his tenth shutout, which is now a single-season record for UMW.

Mary Washington will visit Salisbury University on Wednesday in the conference semifinals. Game time has yet to be announced.