LEBANON, Tenn.—It's starting become a postseason trend for the Fire men's soccer team.
Tight game; find the freshman.
In the 102
nd minute of play of the NAIA Opening Round,
Jake Van Der Luit snagged a ball near the 18 and fired it to the back post from 12 yards out to give the Fire a 1-0 win over Cumberland to advance to the Round of 16 in Delray Beach, Florida.
The goal was the fourth of the postseason by Van Der Luit, and his third game-winner in as many postseason games.
"Jake made a fantastic run and quality strike in goal," said coach
Clay Roberts. "I can't say enough about our team right now; we battle every minute and possess the quality when we need it."
The Fire (16-4) were outshot 19-11, which included being outshot 9-2 during the second half of play.
Southeastern had the majority of the opportunities in the first half, and had three corner kicks, but were unable to capitalize. Cumberland (18-2-1) controlled play in the second half with the wind at its back, but SEU freshman keeper
Jorge Navarrete made four saves to send the match to the extra session.
"We knew it was going to be a fantastic game; Cumberland is a very dangerous team and our team defense was organized and individuals made great plays when they needed to," said Roberts.
The Fire will take on the winner of the Indiana Wesleyan and Lindsey Wilson game on November 30
th. The time will be set after this weekend's matches.
