The first opponent to challenge the 2011 squad on the legendary pitch: Stevenson Field were the Wildcats of UNH. First year Bears' attended an exclusive meeting prior to their first of many pre-game routines. Upon exiting the Pizz freshman GK Alex Carr was spotted utilizing his Kiwi charm to extend his fan base before he even stepped foot on the field. The eight freshmen who have joined the team all have rich backgrounds hailing from the West, the South, Switzerland and New Zealand. This diverse group is devoted to extending the Brown Bear soccer tradition.
Spirits were high in the locker room as the 3:00 PM kick off time approached. The focus, as always, was to win the game, but preparing for PC was also in the forefront of everyone's mind.
The match began with our back line being tested immediately in a direct fashion. Competing with an athletic side like the Wildcats' our defenseman anticipated having to win long balls and chase into the corners of the pitch; they were prepared. After settling the ball, we were able to combine resulting in a fantastic opportunity within the first minute of the match. Throughout the duration of the first half we had several chances and warded off the opponents. The first ended 0-0.
Sorting out the issues from the first the Bears started the second with a series of unsuccessful attacks. Finally, around the 55th minute UNH's defenseman got a handle on the ball, literally, and was whistled for a penalty. The ball found it's home in the back of the net putting Brown up 1-0. The outlook of the game seemed bright when the Bears began to press, however, not 5 minutes later the referee found an "eye for an eye moment" to call another penalty, this time against the home team. Brown 1 UNH 1. Even though the Brunos' were not victorious on the day, the match was an overall success leaving a positive feeling with the team and staff. Much left to prepare for but a good start to a great upcoming season....
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