Extra Time Proves Costly For Panthers

PLYMOUTH, N.H. – After Saturday, one would think that the Plymouth State Men’s soccer team would like to finish a game in regulation. Two minutes into the first overtime, Keene State freshmen Greg Sauer put the ball past Plymouth keeper Dan Custance giving Keene State a 2-1 Little East Conference win at Panther Field. The first ten minutes of the first half, Keene State controlled the field, mostly with a strong passing game and always physical play. Keene State senior Jimmy Hogan ten minutes in flicked the ball from the left side of the eighteen box and landed on the foot of KSC senior captain John Harke, giving KSC a 1-0 lead. Play continued to be physical as both teams exchanged chances back and forth, both teams trying to find a spark to ignite their squad to a lead. About halfway through the first half, Plymouth found their spark. From a Brad Wyman throw-in, senior Sebastian Rodriguez volleyed the throw from going out over the end line to an anxious Felix Rosen. Rosen then headed the ball past Keene State keeper Brandon Beck tying the score at one apiece. Plymouth State and Keene State then locked down on defense. Both teams exchanged chances and runs back and fourth, coming up empty handed each time. Play became very physical as the tension mounted. Plymouth possibly had the best opportunity before the end of regulation. Plymouth midfielder R.C. Mooney had an open shot at goal and was denied as Beck made a miraculous save to his left, preserving the tie. Five of the last six matches for Plymouth State have gone into overtime. In that span, Plymouth has gone 2-3-1, losing two of those matches in overtime. Plymouth State will try to go back to their winning ways at home tomorrow, Saturday October 16 when face Little East Conference opponent Southern Maine. The match will be played at Panther Field and the start time is slated for 3 p.m.