The men’s soccer team held U-Mass Dartmouth scoreless while netting three goals this past Saturday in Gorham. The game, a conference win for the Huskies, improved their overall record to (9-3-3) and (2-2-1) in the Little East Conference (LEC).
The trio of goals began in the first half with a header by senior Andy Budelman (Rochester, NH). Sophomore Adam Bial (Wenham, MA), who was able to capture the other two goals for USM, attributes Budelman’s goal as the trigger that propelled their team to win.
“Once we get our first goal our momentum flows from there,” said Bial.
The Huskies’ momentum stayed strong as the game entered the second half. Both teams fought hard, with several players receiving yellow cards for rough play as the game intensified. Midway through the half Budelman made a run, penetrating the Corsairs’ defense with a cross to Bial. Bial connected with the cross for a successful shot on goal with 20:25 remaining, putting the Huskies even further out of the Cosairs reach, going up 2-0.
Though down, Dartmouth refused to give up and managed several attempts on goal. The Huskies’ defense was unrelenting and recovered each time, crushing Dartmouth’s hopes for a goal. USM sophomore goalkeeper Chris Willard (Hampton, CT) further proved himself by attaining his sixth shutout of the season.
The Huskies finalized their victory as Bial once again sent the ball past Dartmouth defense on a header off a cross from senior Zach Rossingnol (Portland, ME).
“We needed to keep our heads,” said Coach Eric Miller, “When the competition is tough, we need to be tough.”
This win was important for the men’s team with the end of the season and conference play drawing near. Each win is a chance to improve the team’s placement in the LEC standings. After the big win, Miller is confident in his team’s ability.
“Now we need to take care of the next two in the conference.”