TEANECK N.J.- In a highly-anticipated rematch of last year's NEC Semifinal match, the FDU Knights (1-10) (1-2) clashed with CCSU (5-4-1) (3-0) in a showdown that showcased intense competition and compelling moments. While the Knights maintained control for the majority of the match, they ultimately faced a gut-wrenching loss to CCSU, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the beautiful game.
1st Half
The first half set the stage for an exciting contest with the Knights dominating possession in the CCSU half for a majority of the first 45'. A key factor in their early success was their ability to win 50/50 balls and their relentless pressure on CCSU players with possession.
In the 3' Luperon unleashed the first shot of the match, albeit missing wide to the left.
The 17' witnessed impressive link-up play between Kiomy Luperon and Naemi Huasen who played a give a go to find space on the right flank. Luperon delivered a pinpoint cross to the top of the box, where Nina Carlomusto narrowly missed the target.
During the half, the Knights had several chances to score but were unfortunate to not capitalize on any of the opportunities.
2nd Half
In the second half the Knights continued their quest for a breakthrough with Leighann Kafel registering the team's first shot on target from distance in the 55'.
The turning point arrived in the 68' when FDU seized the lead. Luperon showcased her tenacity by stealing the ball from the opposing goalkeeper and firing a shot from a tight angle. The ball found its way to Salas, who calmly tapped it into the open net for her thrid goal of the season.
However, the match took an unexpected twist in the 73' when CCSU leveled the score, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion.
In the waning moments of the contest, with just 37 seconds remaining, CCSU completed the comeback, seizing the lead and securing the victory in heart-stopping fashion. This late-game twist left the Knights empty handed after a hard-fought battle.
The match served as a testament to the unpredictability and excitement of soccer, where fortunes can change in an instant. While the Knights displayed great effort and control for much of the game, they were reminded that soccer's beauty lies in its ability to surprise and challenge even the most determined teams.
"I felt like we played great in the first half, but to not score a goal in the first 45' was a let down for us. Even in the second half we were playing very well until we scored the opening goal. It seemed like after we scored we suddenly stopped playing, our movement became static and we were not holding on to the ball as well. Coach Teepe continued, "This is something that we need to learn from, we keep putting ourselves in situations to win games but ultimately come up short."
The Knights are scheduled to face Stonehill (0-10-1)(0-3) at home, with the match set for 7 PM on Thursday, September 28th.
Connect with FDU women's soccer on Twitter and Instagram, @FDUKnightsWSOC.
