Men’s soccer drops fifth straight, 1-0 to Williams
Team still seeking first goal since Sept. 12
Having suffered four straight losses heading into the weekend, MIT Men’s Soccer was hoping to regain momentum on Saturday at Steinbrenner Stadium. Unfortunately, with a 1-0 loss for MIT, the nationally-ranked Ephs of William College stood in their way.
The Ephs, who entered Saturday’s contest standing at 3-1-1 in NESCAC play, struck first. After failing to capitalize on several opportunities earlier in the half, Williams grabbed an early lead with 13 minutes remaining in the first half on a header from Philip Vestergaard. Goalkeeper Dylan S. Rankin ’12 would be tested often by the Ephs’ attack, but kept MIT in the game. With 1:14 remaining in the half, Rankin challenged a relentless Matt Kastner from Williams and made a remarkable save on a header from close range.
Indeed, it was the MIT offense that continued to struggle, if not for lack of opportunities. The Engineers have been held scoreless for five straight games after beginning the season on a prolific pace, scoring more than four goals each game. Forward Zachary E. Kabelac ’12 and midfielder Jonathan K. Tebes ’14 each put two shots on goal against the Ephs, but to no avail.
The Engineers will try to turn things around at home against Salve Regina on Wednesday before preparing for a crucial in-conference matchup with Babson College next Saturday. With much of their in-conference schedule remaining to be played, the Engineers have the opportunity to regain position for the conference tournament, but it is clear they will have to re-ignite their offensive firepower in order to do so.