The USM men’s soccer team faced off against nationally ranked Bowdoin College this past Tuesday. Despite their opponents ranking of 7th in the nation, the Huskies stepped onto the field with confidence and handed Bowdoin their first loss of the season, 2-0.
“We had no option but to win,” said senior forward Andy Budelman (Rochester, NH).
Budelman had no doubt in his team’s capacity to beat Bowdoin.
“If you have any doubt, you’ve already lost” said Budelman.
Play was tight throughout the first half leaving both teams scoreless. It wasn’t until fifteen minutes into the second half that USM was able to capture the game’s first goal. The goal was scored as senior Zack Rossignol (Portland, ME) sent a free kick in on goal. Amongst the battle inside the box, the ball deflected off a Bowdoin defender and put USM up one.
The game’s intensity increased after USM’s goal with Bowdoin stepping up play. They made several runs on goal with USM’s defense and goalkeeper Chris Willard (Hampton, CT), shutting them down each time. The Huskies matched Bowdoin’s intensity scoring a second goal and sealing the win with six minutes left to play.
The goal, headed in by Budelman, came from a perfectly served corner kick by sophomore Eddie Weddington (Augusta, ME).
“It was a beautifully struck kick; they ran the corner perfectly,” said coach Miller.
Miller gives much credit for the win to the tremendous defense played by USM throughout the game. Willard played yet another impressive game in goal and was given solid support by his defensive line-up.
This win was big for the Huskies as they continue their season undefeated. “They are the best team we’ve played so far,” said Miller. The Huskies take on the White Mules of Colby College on Wednesday, the 29th at 4:00.