WEST LONG BRANCH, N.J. - Monmouth University registered its second shutout of the season, and ninth out of its last 11 matches, en route to a 2-0 victory over Manhattan College on Friday afternoon, in its home opener on The Great Lawn.

Monmouth reserve Rob LaRocca (Holmdel, N.J./CBA) got the Hawks on the board first, as the junior received a pass from senior Michael Millar (Kearny, N.J./Kearny) in stride and beat Manhattan keeper John Ciano to the far netting. LaRocca's goal, in the 36th minute, was his first of the season.

The Hawks made the score 2-0 five minutes into the second stanza as senior Tom Gray (Middletown, N.J./Middletown South) drove a free kick from 30 yards out just inside the far post. Gray, a Hermann Trophy Watch List performer, scored his first goal of the season.

Senior goalkeeper Daniel Schenkel (Campo Verde, Brazil) recorded his 15th career shutout with the Blue and White, stopping two shots en route to the victory. Freshman Brian Meredith (Scotch Plains, N.J./Scotch Plains-Fanwood) played the final 12:15 in goal for the Hawks, earning his first minutes in net.

"I was pleased with the opportunities we created today," said head coach Robert McCourt. "It was a solid effort across the board."

Monmouth outshot the Jaspers 16-6 in the match, forcing Ciano to make seven saves. Adam Kiley was credited with a defensive save late in the second half, robbing LaRocca of a second goal.

Monmouth returns to action on Sunday, when the Hawks host Saint Peter's on The Great Lawn, at 1:00 p.m.