The Skidmore Men’s Soccer Team drew with SUNY Oswego this past Saturday, September 21, by a score of 1-1. After a back-and-forth match throughout, Skidmore notched the first goal of the game in the 83rd minute off a beautiful finish from Junior Midfielder Tobias Catizone. However, Oswego quickly responded with a score of their own two minutes later, as Senior Forward Kyle Hanner cleaned up a rebound goal out in front of the net.
“That one was frustrating,” said Senior Captain Max Heberlein. “It was a game we were firmly in control of, and we squandered a quality opportunity to beat a solid out of conference team.”
Unfortunately, this has been a common theme for Skidmore Men’s Soccer this season. Standing at 1-1-4, Skidmore has had trouble turning draws into wins. “Our record certainly isn’t indicative of how we’ve been playing. We’re a young, talented squad who’s still adjusting to Coach Campion’s new system of play,” asserted Heberlein. The captain continued, praising his teammates' buy-in and effort.
“Our motto for this season is ‘perfecting progress’. Obviously, there are a ton of growing pains that come with having a young roster and playing a new brand of soccer, but I feel as if we’re improving each day. Everyone on the team has a solid understanding of their role, and our confidence is building. Now, it's just about securing three points instead of one.”
Junior Goalkeeper Will Devall, Sophomore Striker Colin Goodhines, and Junior Midfielder Cole Rogan have all impressed so far this season. “Those three have all taken huge steps for us this year,” says Heberlein. “Will has been awesome in net, and Colin and Cole continue to produce game after game.”
Heberlein reaffirmed the positivity and maturity of the squad. “Our entire roster has matured dramatically since the start of the season. We’ve felt the pain of losing, and more importantly, we know exactly what it takes to win.”
Skidmore began their conference play against Hobart (1-4-2), this past Saturday, September 28. “The Liberty League is open for the taking,” says Heberlein. “We know we have a group that can make a splash in the Liberty League. It all [started] on Saturday with Hobart.”