Sussex Men Head Back to the Region Final!

On a cloudy misty afternoon at Sussex County Community College, the Sussex Men's Soccer team came out firing in this Semi Final game against Rowan College Gloucester County. Player of the year, Adrian Sanchez of Sussex, scored two goals in the first 15 minutes, giving Sussex a 2-0 lead heading into halftime. Coach Vernacchio said, "Gloucester is a tough team and for us to jump on them early was important. To their credit, they did not break and they battled back." Battled back they did. Heading into the second half, Gloucester would score two quick goals themselves tying the game up 2-2. Coach Vernacchio said, "In these games, it is all about who can control their emotions. There will be highs and lows, but you have to remain calm." The game would end into overtime trading chances. Bailey Caller of Sussex would keep Sussex alive saving two shots back to back. Still tied after overtime Sussex and Gloucester would head into Penalties, which Coach Vernacchio said, " A team game that was played so well now came down to individuals who were willing to step up. We were practicing Penalties all week and we had a good feel for who was going to take them." Sussex and Gloucester would trade goals until finally the Roadrunners missed, hitting the cross bar and sending Sussex back to the Region final. Coach Vernacchio said, "all year we have found a way. There have been so many games that these boys have pulled through finding a way to win. I am so proud of this group and watching them celebrate not just with their teammates, but also with our fans, was a really special way to finish our last home game on our field." 

Sussex will play #2 Ocean at Ocean County College Saturday, November 2nd for the Region Championship. Kick off will take place at 1:00PM.