ODAC Week 2: Eastern Mennonite and Hampden-Sydney

Week two saw the Generals play host to Eastern Mennonite University on a rare Tuesday game and then faced rivals Hampden-Sydney College on Saturday afternoon. After only taking one point away from two games in week one, the Generals needed some valuable points to get back up the ODAC table.

Tuesdays game versus EMU started with dismal first half performance. We were caught on our heels, unorganized in the back, and gave them way too much time on the ball for most of the 45 minutes. The Royals took advantage late in the first half off  a direct free kick from 18 yards out.The boys responded well in the second half and battled hard to get us on level terms in the 75th minute. James Paldino (leading scorer so far with 5 points) scored far post off a blocked shot inside the 18 yard box. The Generals continued to up the pressure in the remaining 10 minutes and saw a few chances fall our way, but could not slip one in in regulation. As soon as overtime started it ended. 50 seconds in OT, EMU flicked one after a defensive miscue between the center backs and keeper. It was a tough way to lose the game especially after a dominate second half performance.

Saturdays home game was the biggest game to date this season. In desperate need of 3 points and some much wanted revenge on a team that has ended the Generals post season the past couple of years. The Generals opened up flying scoring early in the 6th minute with a Conor Starr rip from 12 yards out. The generals continued to play well for the remainder of the first half, limiting Hampden-Sydney to one shot on goal. The second half  lead to a more defensive mindset to continue to limit their chances in the midfield and to preserve our lead.To defend a 1-0 lead for 45 minutes is a daunting task but Parker Wolfinger provided some relief in the opening minutes of the second half to score his first goal of the season (FINALLY!). The 5-8  140 lb beast climbed in the air to head home a back post cross from first year Al Organ.
This was an incredible win for the team and coaches and we look to continue our great play as we travel to Ferrum College on Wednesday and then again play on the road against #25 Randolph College.