Freiman, Raiders outlast Endicott, 2-1 in 2OT Thriller

(Nashua, NH) For the first time since 2010, the Rivier Men's Soccer team earned a win as they defeated visiting Endicott College in a thrilling double overtime thriller up on the hill at Raider Field. Freshman Greg Freiman (Hampton, CT) ended the game as his shot with 24.8 seconds remaining gave the Raiders the best start to their season in quite some time.

The night was a consitant battle between the two teams, who exchanged single tallies late in the first half. The Gulls (1-2 overall) took the lead when senior Bobby Durben (Stow, Mass.) found the back of the net on a breakaway opportunity. The Raiders would answer just six minutes later when freshman Anthony Capozzi (Windham, NH) found a loose ball about 15 yards out a drilled one past the Endicott goalkeeper.

When the second half began, the Gulls had plenty of energy as they created several quality scoring chances. Rivier's freshman goalkeeper Gary Archambault (Auburn, NH) and the rest of the Raider defense was able to absorb the attack and keep the game tied.

The score remained deadlocked at 1-1 until the second overtime. Both teams had quality chances in the first extra time period but both were unable to end it. With 24.8 seconds left to play, Freiman was able to lift the Raiders to victory as he was able to get his shot passed Endicott's Austin Peluso (Sophomore/Farmington, CT).

Endicott outshot the Raiders 32-11, however only 10 of those 32 shots were on net. Archambault made nine saves for his first career victory while Peluso stopped 3 of the 5 shots he saw on net.

This marks the first win for the Rivier Men's Soccer program since Sean Auclair's overtime winner against Mount Ida College on October 23, 2010. This was also the first Rivier win for 3rd year Head Coach Bill Lawler.

Rivier will have only a few days to enjoy the win as they will quickly get prepared to host Lesley University in a 7pm Non-Conference contest on Saturday night (9/7). The Gulls will also return to the pitch on Saturday as they host Salem State University in a North Shore Cup matchup.