ERIE, Pa. - The Gannon men’s soccer team lost in heartbreaking fashion on Sunday afternoon after Mercyhurst scored the game-winning goal with just 21 seconds left in regulation of the regular season finale for both teams.
A trip to the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) men’s soccer tournament was on the line on Sunday as Gannon needed a win to qualify. The Lakers, who had already been eliminated from the playoff race, spoiled Gannon’s chance at qualifying for the tournament with Alex Manea’s goal in the final minute of regulation.
Manea’s goal came off a pass from Arash Fahandezh to the right side of the field where Manea’s low line drive kick to the far post beat the keeper.
The crosstown rivals played an even match, as each team recorded 16 shots, with each goalkeeper stopping six. In his first collegiate start Jason Barbarino (Pittsburgh, Pa / Plum Senior) had his most impressive save when the freshman came out of net to stop a Mercyhurst breakaway shot.
The Golden Knights out-shot the Lakers in the first period 9-5, but Mercyhurst controlled much of the second half recording 11 shots to Gannon’s seven. Five of Barbarino’s six saves came in the second period.
The Golden Knights held a 9-8 advantage in corner kicks and were called for 22 fouls, while Mercyhurst committed just 10. Afrim Latifi (Erie, Pa. / Cathedral Prep) led Gannon in scoring opportunities, recording seven of the team’s 16 shots.
Gannon finishes the regular season at 11-7 and will wait for the announcement of the NCAA Tounament field. In last week’s NCAA Atlantic regional rankings the Golden Knights were fourth and only four teams from the region with qualify. Mercyhurst finishes the regular season with a 13-2-3 record. Gannon finishes 4-5 in conference, while Mercyhurst finishes 4-2-3.
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