Missed Opportunities Become Costly

Sophomore forward Dillon Muise

The Frostburg State Bobcats were punished for missed opportunities again this past weekend in the FSU Tournament.  We played Wilmington (OH) on Friday and saw an early chance against the Quakers come up empty.  We were able to get in behind Wilmington's back line in the opening minutes and had Shawn Baker one "v" one with the Quaker keeper, but Baker was taken down from behind by a Wilmington defender. The official, recognizing the foul, called the infringement, but neglected to expel the defender.  The ensuing free kick was saved and the half would end scoreless.

In the second half the Quakers took advantage of a well constructed free kick and went up one nil.  Much of the second half was played in the midfield, but the Quakers did have the better of the opportunities and put another goal away in the 89th minute as Frostburg pushed more players into the attack looking for the tying goal.

The consolation game would be against Eastern Mennonite University on Saturday afternoon.  Again, the offense did well to get in behind the back line, but squandered numerous chances in front of goal.  The Royals scored in the second half on a play that didn't start as much.  A floated cross into the box was flicked on by an EMU player beating senior keeper Stephen Cavallo to the ball and was the only goal in the game. 

Fatigue was surely an issue for us having played 3 games in 4 days.  Our fitness level is not wear it needs to be and the injuries are starting to mount.  Already down 3 starters from the Bethany match on Wednesday, starting left back Sergio Vargas picked up a knock and was unable to play on Saturday.  Many inexperienced players are seeing minutes on the pitch and have put forth a good effort.  Freshman, Jason Bennett has played solid on defense since replacing the injured Anthony Tossounian, and transfers Chris Coello and Greg Hill have contributed solid minutes to the Bobcat attack.  Although we haven't earned a "W" yet, the season is early and we have a lot of positives looking forward.  We are hoping to play  better this weekend and are hopeful that we can start to get healthy and fit for our conference opener next Wednesday against Marymount.