Union’s boys went into their game with the James Kenan Tigers Wednesday hoping to avenge an earlier 4-2 loss. They did just that, shutting out the visitors 2-0.

“We really needed this win tonight,” said an elated coach David Ameen. “It’s tough to drop two games to any team so we really wanted to get this one back, and we did in a big way.”

Ameen said the Spartans played well despite a soccer field that resembled a swamp following heavy rains earlier in the week. “We had standing water in some spots, so it was a bit tough out there, but the guys handled it well. In fact, they played a great game. I’m really, really proud of my guys.”

Although most of his team’s injuries have now healed, Ameen said his goalie was still sidelined with a shoulder injury. He put Freddy Sanchez in the position and the coach said the young man shone.

“He really came up huge for us today (Wednesday). He made some great saves. In fact, it some of the best I’ve seen this season from any of the teams we’ve played. I have to give props to Freddy. Without him, the outcome might not have been the same,” Ameen said.

Union scored both its goals in the first half, both off direct kicks, one from Isaias Campos, the other from Chayanne Lopez.

Even though the Spartans didn’t score in the second half, Ameen said they played good soccer. “I thought they looked great. They were passing well, communicating … they were finally doing the things we’ve needed to do. I was very pleased with the effort,” Ameen stressed.

The win moves Union’s record to 6-3-2 overall and 5-3 in conference play.

They travel to Pender Monday for a 5 p.m. game against the Patriots.