Revenge for the Bears...

Before the season commences, we always meet as a team to review our schedule. During this meeting, the high intensity contests: University of South Florida, Florida Gulf Coast, and the Ivy league opponents are all highly anticipated. This year, however, we identified a different type of contest that posed the most unassuming challenge to our season. These games are defined as matchups against talented, non-conference opponents towards the end of the season, a time when the Ivy League season takes precedence. 

Last year, we had mixed results in these games, wins against Boston College and Boston University, but a disappointing loss at the University of New Hampshire. On Tuesday evening, we were determined to not allow our level drop as we strived for another positive result against a regional rival and a team who had beaten us last year. The guys came out for warm-ups with vigor on Tuesday night, knowing we would be reliant on our own energy on this chilly Tuesday night against The University of New Hampshire.

We came out with a strong starting eleven. Many of the traditional starters once again began the game, but an opportunity to start was given to Sophomore Jason Pesek (also my suitemate).

The game began with a lot of confident attacking soccer. We showed a lot of positive movement from the midfield as crisp passes were connected all over the field. Eduardo Martin represented a strong holding presence in the middle of the park while Pesek and right back, Alex Markes, consistently completed passes into wingers and forwards. Mid-way through the first half, our high percentage of possession was rewarded with a big chance. Quinn English produced another spectacular long throw, ultimately headed in by Louis Zingas, but the goal was denied due to a questionable foul call. The first half ended with a continuance of possession domination, but we could not find the back of the net. The first half ended 0-0.

The second half began in a similar fashion to how the first half ended. We continued to control ball possession, but chances were few due to a well-organized New Hampshire defense. Despite numerous substitutions, it was difficult to find a goal throughout the whole half. The end of regulation finished with the score still at 0-0.

Extra-time has begun to feel almost customary to us at this point, with six extra-time appearances already in the 2014 season. This time, though, things felt different. There was a feeling on the sidelines, an understanding that this time the ball would roll our way. Overtime began with a great run by Jack Gorab that resulted in a top save from the New Hampshire Goalkeeper and a clearance for a throw-in. Quinn English once again summoned up his long-throw and Will Cross rose early to meet the ball with his head and guide it into the top corner. Less than a minute into overtime, and the game was over. Brown 1, New Hampshire 0.

Spirits in the locker room were high after the win, we look forward to the upcoming trip to Philadelphia.

 C-ROD