Despite its 2-0 loss Friday to George Washington University, the men's soccer team was able to pull through Sunday and beat George Mason University 2-1 to officially start its 2007 season.
Even with several goal attempts at the end of the game, the Eagles was unable to catch the GW Colonials on Friday. AU was trailing 1-0 when key midfielder Colin Zizzi earned himself two yellow cards within 10 minutes of each other, resulting in a red card for the midfielder and causing the Eagles to play a man down for the remainder of the game.
Despite valiant efforts by the team, including a free kick by freshman Daniel Shannon that sailed just wide of the goal and a shot by sophomore Cameron Petty, the Eagles were defeated when George Washington sealed its victory with a game-winning goal in the last nine seconds.
The team quickly rebounded and stepped on the field looking for a win at its Sunday game against George Mason, the second round of the D.C College Cup. AU placed itself on the scoreboard early in the game when junior defender Tremaine Chinapoo scored his first career goal in the opening five minutes of the first period. Freshmen David Menzie provided the assist. The Eagles heightened its lead to two goals when freshman Jamie Davin scored on an unassisted play.
George Mason attempted to stay in the game with a goal from a corner kick in the second period. The Eagles responded with tight defense, allowing only two more shots on goal from George Mason that failed to add to the scoreboard. Keeper Chris Sedlak played an excellent game, making four saves, contributing greatly to the victory over George Mason.
"Sedlak was outstanding in goal, and the team defending was outstanding," said Todd West, head coach.
Sedlak, Davin and Cooper Bryant each earned all-tournament honors for their outstanding performances in the game.
West said he was happy with the team's performance despite Friday's loss.
"We obviously hoped to win them both, but with a young team, we are just trying to figure a few things out early in the season," he said. "There are areas we can improve, but I'm pleased with the performance of the team overall."
The team lost three seniors but gained a full freshman class of seven promising players. Among the key returning players are senior Sedlak and juniors Philip Purdy and Justin Turco.
Friday, the AU Eagles will play its home opener against Princeton University. American will be looking to protect its field from the Tigers.
