After Their First Shutout, The Momentum Runs Dry

Andy Stewart

Brian Armstrong

A few breaks here and there and perhaps the Tiger men's soccer team would have a different outlook on things right now. As it is, after four overtime losses in the first eight games of the season, Wittenberg will have to find some way to rally to meet the lofty goals they have set for themselves.

Last week, the Tigers recorded their first shutout of the 2002 season against Muskingum by a 3-0 count on Wednesday. Wittenberg took the lead with five minutes to play in the first period. A free kick played in by freshman Andrew Stewart (Huber Heights, Ohio/Wayne) led to a header from 12 yards out by freshman Matthew Berry (Tipp City, Ohio/Tippecanoe).

The home team didn't look back from that point and maintained pressure to add two more goals in the space of three minutes in the second half. Sophomore Cliff Cannon (Gahanna, Ohio/Wellington School) provided both assists, senior Brian Armstrong (Delaware, Ohio/Dublin Coffman) claimed his third of the season and Stewart turned from provider to scorer to secure the points for Wittenberg.

Once again, however, the Tigers were unable to capitalize on a win's momentum, falling in yet another overtime game. Armstrong netted another goal, but the Tigers fell in a game at the aborted Wilmington Kiwanis Invitational on Saturday to Washington & Jefferson. That game was originally scheduled for Friday but was pushed back by rain and lightning. Saturday's game against Wheaton was cancelled.

W&J took the lead on an unassisted goal after a rebound in the first half and held the lead until mid-way through the second period when Armstrong put away his fourth of the season, unassisted off another rebound.

The Tigers head back to Wilmington for another game on Wednesday, hoping to build some momentum before they start the NCAC campaign.