Ephs defeat Eastern Conn 2-0 in first round of NCAA
KEENE, N.H. – The Williams College men's soccer team used
a pair of goals from seniors Mike Darling and Ryan Pelletier to
defeat Eastern Connecticut 2-0 in the first round of the NCAA
championships Saturday afternoon.
The Ephs (11-4-2) got out to a fast start in their opening game of
the 2007 NCAA tournament, needing only ten minutes to net the games
first goal when a quick passing combo found Mike Darling in the top
right corner of the box; and Darling loosed a lightening bolt
across the face of the goalie and into the left side panel of the
net.
The Ephs added an insurance goal in the second half when Ryan
Pelletier and Darling collaborated on a wall pass that ended with
Pelletier beating the goalie on a one-on-one, putting the Ephs up
2-0.
Sensing that their season was in jeopardy, the Warriors (11-7-3)
raised their game and really pressured the Ephs for the remainder
of the half; however, Williams refused to break and held on for the
victory.
"I am delighted that we were able to get through this one and make
it to the next round." Stated Eph coach Mike Russo, "I am really
excited for tomorrow."
The win advances the Ephs to the second round, where they will get
a shot to avenge a September 26th 1-0 home loss to Keene State. The
Owls (12-4-5) advanced by defeating York College 6-0.
The game will be played tomorrow at 1:00 PM in Keene, N.H.
