Men’s Soccer Ends Regular Season With Win Over Westfield State

Chicopee, MA- The Elms College men's soccer team made it three wins in a row as they beat Westfield State 1-0 Wednesday night on a glossy Leary Field. The Blazers are now 5-10-3 on the season. 

The game started out with Westfield dominating possession but not producing anything in the final third. The Owl's had two breakaway opportunities but Elms goalkeeper Julian Brosi (West Newbury, MA) cut down the angle and heroically kept the game scoreless. Elms had their chances to take the lead as well, shots from Babba Jaden (Clarkston, GA) and Alex Egan (Watertown, MA) found the target, but couldn't find the back of the net. It was an even game as the first half ended 0-0. 

Westfield State came out on fire in the second half, creating multiple chances in the first five minutes. However, they couldn't convert keeping the game scoreless, with all to play for in the remaining 40 minutes. The Owl's missed chances would come back to haunt them as Elms took the lead in the 52nd minute. A Westfield State free kick cleared by Alex Szarkowski (Belchertown, MA) put Elms on the counter attack, Jaden found the ball and set a sprinting Egan on a breakaway who kept his composure and finished it into the bottom left corner.

As they game was coming to an end, Elms decided to park the bus on Westfield and denied every chance that came their way. Brilliant defending from the Elms midfielders and defenders saw them shut out their opponents as the Blazers would go on to win 1-0. 

Egan and Jaden now combine for 5 goals and 4 assists in the last 3 games. Brosi made 8 saves as he got his 3rd win of the season. Elms outstanding defense earned them their 4th clean sheet of the year. 

The Blazers are back in action on Sunday, November 3rd, away to Mitchell College at 2pm in the first round of the NECC playoffs. Pop out as Elms looks to keep their season alive in this due or die matchup.

Story by Alex Egan