Men's Soccer Improves to 2-0

Deptford, NJ

September 3, 2009

It was October 14 when the Roadrunners got their second win during the 2008 season but this season seems to be shaping up a lot better for the team. It is September 3rd and the Roadrunners are sitting 2-0 after defeating visiting Harford CC by a score of 2-0. "Our returning players really wanted to do better," said Sophomore defender Brandon Knorr (Mullica Hill, NJ/Clearview Regional HS). "Everyone on the team is playing with more heart and determination."

The defense did a great job in this game as the Hawks from Harford CC (1-2) came in after scoring five goals in their last match. Knorr and Matt Maccarone (Mickleton, NJ/Kingsway Regional HS) both made great plays near the goal line in the second half to help freshman goalkeeper Rich Dott (Sewell, NJ/Gloucester Catholic HS) get his first career shutout. Knorr has been impressed by the work ethic Dott has shown in practice, "He really works hard every day and is improving...he has stepped up big in the first two games."

Maccarone has been the most versatile player for the Roadrunners so far this season. He started both games in the defensive backfield but, when needed, he shifts to the forward position where he has been able to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teamates. In today's game he created several chances and then scored on a ball he centered that was deflected into the goal by a Harford defender. After the lead got to 2-0, Maccarone shifted back to his natural defensive position to help preserve the shutout.

The goal that put the game away showed how this team has improved in their passing ability and teamwork. After recieving a long pass on the left sideline, freshman midfielder Sean McDevitt (Williamstown, NJ/Williamstown HS) carried the ball down the left side drawing the defense toward him while his teamates made runs on the opposite side of the field. As he approached the 18yd. mark McDevitt adeptly faked a shot and slipped the ball off the outside of his right foot to sophomore forward Mike Rice (Oaklyn, NJ/Collingswood HS) at the right post for the easy goal. While it is still early in the season, these are the types of plays that help a team build confidence and chemistry.

The Roadrunners will play their next game at home on Tuesday 9/8 at 3:30pm against Burlington CC.

SOCCER GAME SUMMARY

Harford CC (1-2) vs. Gloucester CC (2-0)

Date: Sep 03, 2009

Weather: Warm and Sunny, 75 Degrees

Score: Harford CC 0  GCC 2

Scoring Summary

1. 59:31 GCC Matt Maccarone (unassisted)

2. 60:58 GCC Mike Rice (assist Sean McDevitt)

Shots: HCC 7, GCC 7

Soph Jake Falls gives encouragement to his teamates	Frosh G Rich Dott makes a leaping save to preserve a shutout	Frosh Chaz Moss controls the ball during the second half
The team celebrates after Maccarone scores	Dott working hard in net during a corner kick	Coaches Smith and Scanell discuss strategy at halftime