Aston, Pa. - In 1997, the Neumann College men's soccer program played its first official game at Alvernia College. In that game a young soccer player named Pete Reali recorded the programs first official goal. Today, in the year of the program's 10th anniversary, the Neumann Knights returned to Alvernia College marking another first: their first PAC playoff appearance.
On the sidelines, thoughout the programs' 10th season, was that same Pete Reali. Ten years after scoring that first goal in the inaugural season, Reali returned to his Alma Mater and assisted Head Coach Kevin Sloan, fellow Assistant Coach Tom Aglidian and the 2007 Neumann Knights to the most successful season in program history.
"This program has come so far since I was here as a player," stated Reali after the game. "This is such a tough loss to take in; these players worked so hard this season and played a great game today. I think we all really wanted to advance, we all knew in our hearts that just getting here, though it is a great accomplishment, wasn't enough and I know none of us can wait for next season."
The Neumann Knights fell to the Alvernia Crusaders in penalty kicks (3-1) after a 0-0 score line following 110 minutes of play.
The Knights came out playing with emotion but neither side could find the back of the net in the first half. Neumann's goaltender Zack Ratliff and Alvernia's goaltender Richard Kessler denied all opportunities for both teams, each stopping four shots on net.
In the second half Neumann's Zach Sell managed to avoid one defender and get off a clean shot, but the ball bounced off another Alvernia defender and hit the crossbar. Moments later, Jesse Urquhart generated another opportunity, on a breakaway, but the shot bounced wide of the left post. The Knights outshot the Crusaders 7-4 in the second half but neither team could find a goal in regulation so the game continued in overtime.
In overtime, Morgan Davidheiser of Alvernia attempted to end the deadlock but hit the woodwork. Neumann's Zach Sell created an opportunity in the 94th minute of play but sent the shot high over the net sending the game into a second overtime.
Neumann battled Alvernia shot for shot in the final overtime but both goaltenders kept a close watch on their house and managed to deny any attempts at a break in. Their efforts sent Neumann into its first shoot out of the season.
Neumann's Brett Fenimore scored for the Knights in the shootout, while David Kessler played hero for the Crusaders, saving Neumann's three other shots which were taken by Serigo Garcia, Jesse Urquhart and Mike Barbagallo.
This is has been the most successful season for the Knights in school history. They have shattered many of the programs individual and team records which include the programs first .500 plus season (7-7-5) and first PAC playoff berth.
