With only three returning defenders from 2010, there was uncertainty surrounding the men’s soccer team’s defence. But the back line posted a second consecutive shutout in the Gaels’ 3-0 win over the Trent Excalibur at Richardson Stadium on Sunday. Peter Christidis, Mac Ojiaku and Nick Pateras scored for the Gaels.

The Gaels have yet to allow a goal this season. On Wednesday, the Gaels opened their season with a 2-0 win over the Carleton Ravens. Injured defenders Matt Kenny and Robert Lannan weren’t available against the Excalibur, bumping rookie defender Marco d’Elia into his first OUA appearance.

“We’re so solid right now,” second-year defender David Tom said. “We looked pretty good against Carleton and we looked pretty good today.”

The Gaels have been dedicating a portion of their practice time to defensive training, which focuses on keeping a solid positional shape. Tom said this training has helped the team perform well in their opening games.

“We spend a lot of time on it and it’s pretty boring,” said Tom. “But it really helps a lot in the game and no one is really getting through.”

Although the Gaels are undefeated to start the season, head coach Chris Gencarelli said there’s still room for improvement.

“I thought that we got too comfortable in the last 15 minutes,” Gencarelli said after Sunday’s game. “We can’t be too complacent.”

The Gaels play the 0-2 Royal Military College Paladins on Friday.