CINCINNATI, Ohio – Zach Patterson's goal late in the second half broke a scoreless tie and helped the Cincinnati Bearcats (2-4-1) to a 1-0 home victory over the Towson Tigers (2-4) Friday night at Gettler Stadium.

Patterson's goal in the 74:32 into the game, set up by a pass from Mike Brizzi, was just the fourth goal of the season Cincinnati had scored, but was good enough to propel the Bearcats to their second victory of the year.

The Tigers stuck with the Bearcats for much of the game and had an exciting chance to take the lead in the 64 minute. Junior forward Enrico Skrypzak ripped a shot at the Bearcats' goal, but the ball deflected off the post as the game remained scoreless.

Cincinnati goalkeeper Taylor Hafling made six saves in the win to earn his second shutout of the season. The Tigers peppered Hafling with 10 shots, including four each from Skrypzak and junior forward Olakunle Banjo, who also had a shot deflect off the post.

For Patterson, it marked his first goal of the season. He was part of an offense that outshot the Tigers 14-10. Patterson and David Murrow each had three shots.

Tiger freshman goalkeeper Felix Petermann again matched a season-high with four saves, a feat he has now accomplished four times this season. He has allowed one goal or fewer in four of six games this season.

The Tigers will next begin Colonial Athletic Association play Saturday, when they host the Georgia State Panthers. Kickoff at the Tiger Soccer Complex is set for 10 a.m.