Moon Township, PA. - Oakland took on Robert Morris is a big road test this weekend.
In a game where RMU looked to be the aggressor, Oakland held steady and used some late-game heroics to come away with the victory.
The Colonials were firing away at the goal to start the game, blasting 17 shots towards the Oakland net in the contest, 13 in the first half. Oakland goalkeeper
Michael Sly Jr. held strong, stopping every single shot sent towards him on his way to a season-high nine saves.
"We were very lucky to not be down a goal or two after the first half. Hats off to
Michael Sly Jr., Carson (Ballagh), and Malik (Sylvester)," said Oakland Head Coach
Eric Pogue.
With the game tied late and the momentum now shifted to Oakland's side, Freshman
Donavan Phillip scored his fourth goal of the season at the perfect time, finding the net in the 84' minute to lead Oakland to a crucial late-season win. Phillip is no stranger to game-winning goals, scoring one in their 2-1 victory against the University of Michigan on Sept. 19. His two game-winning goals ties him for second in the Horizon League.
"It's never easy to get three points, especially away from home in the Horizon League against a tough RMU team," said Pogue. "The boys showed a lot of fight, resilience, and resolve to find a way to win with a much better second half. We regrouped, made some adjustments, and really battled in the second half to earn our three points."
With an IUPUI loss occurring today, Oakland officially jumps to first place in the Horizon League (6-7-2, 5-2 HL) with just two games remaining in the regular season.
Oakland gets a week-long break before they are back on the pitch to defend their first place spot, heading to face Green Bay on Saturday, Oct. 28.
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Student-athletes, parents, and fans can follow Oakland Men's Soccer on social media using @OaklandMSOC on Twitter and Instagram. The Gold Standard Name, Image, and Likeness Marketplace is available to bridge NIL opportunities for student-athletes and can be foundÂ
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