The St. John’s University men opened their exhibition schedule with a 2-1 win over Temple University at Belson Stadium in Queens, N.Y. on Friday afternoon.
Wesley Leggett recprded a goal and an assist for the Johnnies, who are coming of the program’s 22nd NCAA Tournament appearance. Freshman Markus Pusztahegyi netted the game-winner. Graduate student Brandon Knapp also logged an assist.
St. John’s wasted no time getting on the board, as Leggett found the back of the net in the third minute. Just inside midfield, Knapp played a long ball to Leggett. Leggett battled three defenders for possession before sending a rolling shot to the far corner of the net.
Temple equalized in the 22nd minute before the Johnnies jumped back ahead in the 42nd minute Leggett sent a cross in from the right side that found Pusztahegyi in front. The freshman flicked it past the goalkeeper and put the Red Storm ahead.
Four goalkeepers — Ryan Foley, Emmanuel Smalios, Zenden Hart and Andrew Hammersley — saw action for St. John’s.
The Red Storm will play its final home exhibition match of the preseason when it welcomes Colgate University on Monday at 2 p.m.