By: Chris Bates
Orlando, Fla. - After suffering a tough 3-1 loss at home to Northwood, the Warriors had an ever bigger challenge before them, this time it was away to the Tars of Rollins College, who are currently ranked 10th in the NCAA division two rankings.
The Warriors thoroughly dominated possession throughout the first half, with Andres Acosta coming close in the 23
rd minute of the game.
Alan Percival whipped a beautiful ball into the box which Acosta met with his head at the far post, although he couldn't quite steer it home.
Rollins' best chance of the first half occurred just before the half-hour mark, when they won a free kick on the edge of the Warrior's eighteen yard box. While the Warriors were still setting up the ball was quickly played through to Chase Neinken, whose shot was quickly charged down by Brandon Stout.
Webber continued to dictate the pace of the game for the duration of the first half, but were unable to find the breakthrough.
The second half was much like the first, only it was Rollins that appeared dominant and continued to pile on the pressure. Webber maintained their shape at the back which was demonstrated when Craig Peacock cleared the ball off the line from Adam New's header, with only twelve minutes remaining in normal time.
It was just three minutes later when Rollins managed to find the lead. Kevin Boone's cross found Nick Sowers on the far side of Webber's area, who volleyed the ball into the bottom left-hand corner of the net. Sower's goal proved to be the winner for the Tars, but the Warriors left Orlando knowing they fought for everything, and that the game could have gone either way.
Coach Cockburn said, “I am astonished at our performance. We may have lost 1-0, but you have to remember that Rollins are ranked 10th in NCAA division two. If we can play like that during our remaining conference games, I am certain we will qualify for the regional tournament.”
