September 1, 2012

Dear Alumni & Friends,


We took a disappointing loss at #24 Brown last night in the semi-final of the Ocean State Soccer Classic. The Bears scored on what most in attendance considered a dubious penalty in the first half but we put on quite a performance in the 2nd 45 minutes. I was very proud of the boy’s effort as we showed excellent pieces of play and progress forward to where we wanted to be down the road.

After taking some time in the first half to adjust to Brown’s direct style of play, the team settled in began to play football. We got several nice set ups for chances off of a couple of Matt Sykes (Sheffield, England) crosses but no joy in the end. So, the score line held at 1-0 Brown at the half.

Out of the break we got a hold of the ball and were able to control the tempo of the game. Brett Uttley (Jamestown, RI) and Joey Haught (Brecksville, OH) orchestrated so superb combinations with Sykes and Jamie Eckmayer (Harrington Park, NJ) providing speed on the flanks. Goalkeeper Adam Blanchard (Scarborough, ME) and the back four saw some Brown counter attacking chances come their way as we pushed to get a goal. They turned them away and looked like we got the equalizer when Jamie Eckmayer got around the right flank and drove a cross back the Joey Haught slid and redirected in the net. But incredulously the off-side flag was up and the goal taken back. Our last gasp efforts pushing forward were cleared after a couple of blocked shots and the game ended with the Rams on the short end of the score.

It was a terrific performance that Rhody fans would be proud of as we got some key contributions from guy’s off the bench including freshmen Oscar Soons (Breda, Netherlands) and Ross Morison (Linlithgow, Scotland).

Next up is the Ocean State Soccer Classic consolation game which is Monday September 3rd at 7:30 pm. Due to freshmen orientation conflicts at Brown, the final between the Bears and Providence will be played at 5:00 pm. Both games are at the URI Soccer Complex. Admission is FREE so please come join us, see the improvements to the soccer stadium and cheer on the Rams to their first victory of the season.

Enjoy the rest of the weekend and GO RAMS!
Coach O’C