UVM Men’s Soccer Advances to Conference Championship with Thrilling OT Victory
BURLINGTON, VT — The University of Vermont men’s soccer team broke a three-year playoff drought with a hard-fought 2-1 double-overtime victory against UMBC in the America East semifinals on Wednesday night. This win secured Vermont’s spot in the America East final, marking their first conference playoff victory since 2021.
Despite dominating the match with a 23-6 advantage in shots and a commanding 12-0 lead in corner kicks, Vermont found itself trailing after Loc San’s first-half goal for UMBC. The Retrievers managed to stymie the Catamounts through much of the game, showcasing strong defensive play. However, in the 76th minute, UVM’s Yaniv Bazini leveled the score, propelling the match into sudden-death overtime.
After a scoreless first overtime, Bazini delivered the decisive moment in the second extra period. Finding space in the 18-yard box, he skillfully redirected the ball into the net, clinching the victory for Vermont.
The excitement doesn’t end here; in another semifinal match, Bryant upset New Hampshire in a tense penalty shootout, setting the stage for UVM to host the America East Championship. The Catamounts will face Bryant on Sunday at 1 p.m., with a coveted spot in the NCAA Tournament on the line.
As Vermont aims to replicate the recent success of its field hockey team, the stakes have never been higher. Fans are encouraged to support their team in this pivotal matchup, as the Catamounts look to seize their opportunity for NCAA glory.
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Photo credit www.mynbc5.com
