Leon Strikes Gold, Garnet Claims Title in Alumni Classic
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SWARTHMORE, Pa. - Sophomore striker Stu Leon (pictured) banged home a rebound with 45 seconds remaining in the first overtime period, giving the Swarthmore Garnet a 1-0 victory over the Eastern Eagles and their third straight Garnet Alumni Classic tournament title on a mercifully dry Sunday afternoon.
Early action was plagued by frequent whistle-blowing as both teams strove to assert themselves physically; the teams would wind up combining for 50 fouls. The Garnet suffered a blow when midfielder Michael Bonesteel '08 was sent off with a red card after getting tangled up with an Eastern defender in the 18th minute. With the extra man, Eagles built an 8-3 first-half advantage in shots, yet were unable to take advantage.
With the Eagles blanketing Leon with multiple defenders throughout regulation, Swarthmore had minimal chances to score, and the game remained scoreless. The match was returned to even strength when Eastern's Kieran Keelan also drew a red card late in the second half.
Swarthmore's best scoring opportunity came with just a few minutes to play in regulation, when Leon and freshman forward Andres Freire had a two-on-one opportunity. Leon put the ball onto Freire's head, but the attempt was pushed wide by the Eagles' goalkeeper Mike Dorsch.
The Garnet controlled the ball for much of the extra session, denying the visitors even a single shot. It looked like the match was headed for a second extra session when with around twenty seconds to play, Friere received the ball in front of the Eastern net. Friere got off a quick shot, which was turned away by Dorsch, but Leon corralled the rebound and lined the ball home for the game-winner.
It was Leon's second goal in as many games, tying him for the team-high with senior forward Colton Bangs.
Garnet goaltender Ryan Sutcliffe '08 made eight saves for the Garnet for his first career 90-minute shutout. The junior has yet to allow a goal during the young regular season and earned all-tournament honors.
Joining Sutcliffe on the all-tourney squad were Leon, Grady, midfielder Patrick Christmas '08, and defender Jeff Kushner '09. Four Eastern players were named to the squad.
Widener defeated Delaware Valley 4-2 later in the afternoon at Widener's Quick Stadium to wrap up the tournament. (Read more...)