BRIDGEWATER, Mass. - Bridgewater State College and visiting Rhode Island College battle to a 0-0 double overtime tie this afternoon in Division III men's soccer action from BSC's Swenson Field.
The tie marks the second straight for the Bears who are now 4-1-2 on the season. RIC, unbeaten in its last six games, goes to 4-3-2 overall. Bridgewater State holds a slight 10-9-1 advantage over the Anchormen in the all-time matchup which dates back to 1985.
Both teams had outstanding chances in overtime to notch the game-winning goal. RIC's best chances came in the first overtime as both freshman forward Bruno Costa (Pawtucket, RI) and freshman midfielder Troy Silvia (Bristol, RI) were stopped at point blank range by outstanding saves by BSC sophomore netminder Mike White (Canton, MA).
Bridgewater State sophomore forward Donald Flores (Cranston, RI) almost ended the game in the second overtime as his direct kick attempt from 20 yards out glanced off the outside of the left post.
White turned aside eight shots including the two key saves in overtime to pick up his first career shutout. RIC freshman goalie Justin O'Connor (North Kingstown, RI) made six saves to pick up his third shutout of the season.
BSC held a slight 12-10 advantage in shots, while both teams attempted just three corner kicks apiece.
Bridgewater travels to Westfield State College on Friday night (7:00) for a key MASCAC contest with the Owls. RIC heads to Little East Conference foe UMass Dartmouth on Saturday at 1 PM.