Men’s Soccer Continues to Ride the Wave

Last week, Frostburg State University’s Men’s Soccer team capitalized on their propitious season by defeating St. Mary’s 2-1 in double overtime. The Bobcats, (9-4-1) were able to push past the Seahawks (9-4-1) in the 105^th minute of the match. Going into this highly anticipated homecoming game, the Bobcats showed up determined and ready to play.

St. Mary’s made an early goal when Nick Tait got behind the Frostburg defense and scored in the fifth minute.

Even so, FSU freshman Guy Nabo put one in the back of the net on an assist from junior Jonathan Lippitt to end the half with a tied score of 1-1. This marks Nabo’s ninth goal of the season.

This year, freshmen have had a huge impact on the team’s success. As a young team, there are around five freshmen starting each game. “Guy has been our leading scorer and it’s been amazing watching him develop and start to play within our system and become more comfortable with the other guys,” says Coach Byrnes.

In the second half, defense was key for both teams, as St. Mary’s attempted eight shots to Frostburg’s seven. Midfielder K.J. Davis spoke highly on his teammate’s performance this season. “Hassan has been our All-Conference keeper. He’s kept us in games and he does his job and we know he is always back there to bail us out if something breaks down.” When it was all said and done, junior goalkeeper Hassan Mostafa made six saves in the second half alone to keep the Bobcats alive. The end of regulation remained a 1-1 tie. Mostafa ended the game with eight saves.

Freshman Kelvin Tata scored the game winner for the Bobcats off of a rebound kick in the 105^th minute. Tata has scored four goals for the Bobcats this season.

After the game, head coach Keith Byrnes stated, “it was a good win because they beat us last year in the regular season and post season. It was nice to have that revenge factor plus they’re a really talented team. There is a great rivalry because the guys on both teams know each other so it makes for a great atmosphere. There are always close games between us, we were just able to come out on top this time.”

With the post season starting October 31^st, every game from this point on is a “must win,” Coach Byrnes emphasizes. “We just want to play our best soccer as we head into the playoffs and build on that. Hopefully we can win our first conference title.”

Frostburg will return to action October 24^th, for an away game at Salisbury at 2:00 pm.