Formers Saints Find Success at 4 Year Universities

Several former North Country Men's Soccer Players have been impact players at their new schools in 2009. 

James Flaherty, a midfielder for the Saints in 2007-08, recently finished his Junior season at Dominican College in Orangeburg, NY.  James finished with 2 goals and 1 assist for the Charger's.  Plagued by injuries James was in and out of the starting line up.  Dominican lost to Franklin Pearce in the 1st round of the Division 2 National Championship Tournament. 

Craig Peacock, a defender for the Saints in 2007-08, finished his Junior season with Weber International in Lake Wales, FL.  Craig was a starter as an outside back for the Warriors who finished 9-8. 

Dean Atkins, a midfielder for the Saints in 2007, completed his Junior season for Mercyhurst College in Erie, PA.  Atkins scored 4 goals and had 3 assists for the Lakers.  Atkins started in 20 games for Mercyhurst who also lost in the 1st round of the NCAA Division 2 National Championship Tournament.

Several current Saints have offers from 4 year schools and will be making their decisions in the near future.

2 Saints Named NJCAA All-Americans

Freshman Forward Ernest Afful (Columbus, OH/Northland) and Sophomore Midfielder Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Toynebee) were recognized by the NJCAA as All-Americans for the 2009 season.

Afful, a 1st team selection, led the Saints in scoring with 20 goals and 10 assists and finished the season as the 5th leading scorer in the nation. He was also recognized as the Region 3 Player of the Year and the Mountain Valley Conference Player of the Year.

Liam Gilbert, a 2nd team selection, finishes as one of the most decorated Saint in the Programs history. Gilbert scored 23 goals and had 26 assists in his 2 year career. He was a 2-time 1st Team All-Region Player and 2-Time All Conference Player.  Gilbert was one of only 3 midfielders selected. 

Both players are also nominated as NSCAA All-Americans, the most prestigious of the individual awards in Junior College Soccer.

Afful Named Region 3 Player of the Year; 6 Named to All Region Teams

The North Country Saints received several individual awards at the Region 3 Final Four.  Ernest Afful (Columbus, OH/Northland) was named Region 3's top player as the coaches voted him Player of the Year. 

The Saints also posted 6 players on the All-Region Teams.  Sophomore Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Toynebee) made the 1st Team for the 2nd consecutive year.  Afful and Harley Hollinshead (Derby, Eng/Littleover) also received 1st Team Honors.

Sophomore Chris Stephenson (Boroughbridge, Eng/Boroughbridge), and Freshmen Randy Danso (Toronto, ON/Don Mills) and Rhys Calvano (Luton, Eng/Stopsley) were named to the 2nd Team. 

The All Region Teams are the top 24 field players and 2 goalkeepers selected by the coaches of the 20 Region 3 Schools.

Herkimer CCC    -4
North Country    -1

Goals

Herkimer CCC
47:48    Steven Medwinter
58:49    Steven Medwinter
77:51    Mike Roopchandsiangh
79:41    Kariym Balthazar

North Country
:41        Ernest Afful  (Penalty)

Shots
Herkimer          -21
North Country  -8

Saves
James Taber      Herkimer           -2
Zack Peck         North Country   -8

North Country Community College Men's Soccer Team fell to the Herkimer CCC Generals 4-1 in Sunday's NJCAA Region 3 Final.  North Country was unable to hold on to a early 1-0 lead.  The Saints took the lead just 41 seconds into the match on a converted penalty kick by Ernest Afful (Columbus, OH/Northland).  The Saints had 2 other chances to add to the lead but failed to find the net.  Herkimer's speed and sharp ball movement created several chances but the Generals failed to score.  Saints goalkeeper Zack Peck (Chateaugay/Chateaugay) saved a Herkimer penalty kick to keep the Saints ahead near the 10 minute mark of the second half.  North Country would take a 1-0 lead during halftime. 

The Herkimer possession and speed began to wear the Saints down and just after halftime they were able to even the score on Steven Medwinter's finish from 12 yards out.  Medwinter would score his second from the same spot just 10 minutes later to put Herkimer ahead for good.  A diving header by the Saints Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Southampton) sailed over the crossbar and that would prove to be North Country's last chance.  With 12 minutes remaining the Generals blew the game open when Mike Roopchandsiangh scored on a rebound in front of the net.  All-Region player Kariym Balthazar would score the games final goal from 30 yards out on a blast into the upper corner. 

"It is always disappointing to have your season end but I am very proud of the effort our guys gave this season. We received a load of accolades throughout the year and would like to everyone at the school for their support.  We will have to work hard to repeat this success next year," said Head Coach Adam Parker.

The Saints finish 15-3-1 and as runner's up in NJCAA Region 3. 

North Country -4
Mohawk Valley -2

Goals
North Country
10:11 Ernest Afful (Penalty Kick)
19:50 Sahal Ismail assisted by Liam Gilbert
34:42 Rhys Calvano assisted by Liam Gilbert
70:12 Rhys Calvano assisted by Ernest Afful

Mohawk Valley
4:08 Brandon Butts
82:11 Dan Cain assisted by Brandon Butts

Shots
North Country -9
Mohawk Valley -9

Saves
Wignall NCCC -4
Sullivan MVCC -3

North Country Community College Men's Soccer Team advanced to its first Region 3 final since 2002 with a 4-2 victory against Mohawk Valley CC. The Saints now 15-2-1 were forced to go against a driving wind in the first half and Mohawk capitalized early. Off of a goalkeeper punt, the Hawks Brandon Butts settled the ball and shot it in the empty net for an early lead.

North Country found it difficult to settle in with the winds but caught a break just over 6 minutes later. Randy Danso (Toronto, ON/Don Mills) broke in behind the Mohawk Valley defense and was taken down in the penalty area. Ernest Afful (Columbus, OH/Northland) stepped up and converted the penalty kick for his 19th goal of the year. The goal seemed to settle the Saints a bit as they were now back level at 1-1. Substitute Sahal Ismail (Leicester, Eng/Queen Elizabeth) made an immediate impact when he beat a defender on the endline and drove a ball past Mohawk Valley's goalkeeper to give the Saints the lead. 10 minutes before halftime the Saints found the back of the net again. Liam Gilbert's (Southampton, Eng/Toynebee School) free kick from the left hand side was driven into the box and Rhys Calvano (Luton, Eng/Stopsley) converted the kick for a 3-1 North Country lead going into halftime.

The Saints got their final goal with 20 minutes remaining when Rhys Calvano netted his second goal with a finish from 10 yards out in the penalty area. Mohawk's Dan Cain added a late goal to round out the scoring.

"It was a tough game. Mohawk Valley makes it very difficult for us to play our game and the wind made things much more challenging. I was impressed that we kept our heads through everything that was against us today and pulled out the victory. Tomorrow will be the biggest challenge in our programs history but the guys have been focused on this moment the entire year," said Head Coach Adam Parker.

The Saints will face Herkimer CCC in the final on Sunday at 1pm at Tompkins-Cortland Community College.

Saints Move Into NJCAA Top 3

North Country's Men's Soccer Team (13-2-1) moved up in the weekly NJCAA poll to number 3 nationally on Wednesday. The Saints are also ranked number 4 in the NSCAA Coaches poll.

North Country will face Mohawk Valley CC in the 2nd Semifinal of this weekends Region 3 Tournament.  Herkimer CCC will face Tompkins-Cortland CC in the other Semifinal with the winners facing off on Sunday for the Championship and the right to play in the following weekends National Final Four. 

North Country -2
Hudson Valley -1

Goals
North Country
23:44 Randy Danso assisted by Harley Hollinshead
68:10 Liam Gilbert assited by Ernest Afful

Hudson Valley
82:51 Blain Mendyrsa

Shots
North Country -31
Hudson Valley -12

Saves
Ryan Wignall NCCC -6
Renardo HVCC -13

North Country Community College Men's Soccer advanced to the Region 3 Final Four with a 2-1 victory over Hudson Valley Community College. The Saints opened the scoring in the first half when Randy Danso (Toronto, ON/Don Mills) slipped the ball past the Vikings goalkeeper off of Rhys Calvano's (Luton, Eng/Stopsley) long throw.

The Saints missed many chances to double the lead but would finally convert when Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Toynebee) would find the lower right hand corner of the net to put the Saints up 2-0. Hudson Valley pulled one goal back with 7 minutes remaining when Blaine Mendyrsa followed up a free kick by Colin Legge.

The Saints (14-2-1) will face Mohawk Valley on Saturday at Tompkins-Cortland Community College at 2:30.

North Country Seeded #2 in Region 3 Tournament; 5 Saints Named All-Conference

North Country Community College Men’s Soccer Team will host its Region 3 Quarterfinal game Tuesday November 3rd on the NCCC campus in Saranac Lake. The Saints will take on the winner of the Hudson Valley CC and Genesee CC game to be played this Saturday. North Country is the #2 seed for the tournament with an overall record of 13-2-1.

The Saints also had 5 players named to the All-Mountain Valley Conference Team. Freshman Defender Harley Hollinshead (Derby, Eng/Littleover Community), sophomore midfielders Chris Stephenson (Boroughbridge, Eng/Boroughbridge) and Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Toynebee School)and freshmen forwards Randy Danso (Toronto, ON/Don Mills) and Ernest Afful (Columbus, OH/Northland) each received the honor. It is Gilbert’s 2nd appearance after being named All-Conference in 2008.

Afful was honored as the Conference Player of the Year. Afful finished with 18 goals and 8 assists for the Saints.

The Saints finished with a 6-0-1 record in the conference and were co-champions with Herkimer CCC.

North Country -9
Clinton CC -0

Goals

North Country
:55 Ernest Afful assisted by Randy Danso
13:15 Jeff Reynolds assisted by Christian Mejia
15:23 Randy Danso assisted by Ryan Geary
33:02 Serge Zola assisted by Ernest Afful
41:50 Chris Stephenson assisted by Liam Gilbert
51:12 Chris Stepheson assisted by Nana Boakye
57:14 Sahal Ismail assisted by Ryan Geary
59:58 Zack Peck assisted by Liam Gilbert
67:00 Sahal Ismail assited by Serge Zola

Shots
North Country -24
Clinton CC -4

Saves
North Country
Ryan Wignall -2
Adolphe Lumumba -1

Clinton
Adam Manor -8

North Country CC Men’s Soccer moved to 13-2-1 on the season with an 9-0 win at Clinton CC. Chris Stephenson (Boroughbridge, Eng/Boroughbridge) and Sahal Ismail (Leicester, Eng/Queen Elizabeth) each scored twice for the Saints. Ernest Afful (Columbus, OH/Northland), Randy Danso (Toronto, ON/Don Mills) and Serge Zola (Winooski, VT/Winooski) all had a goal and an assist each.

Ryan Wignall (Ogdensburg/OFA) and Adolphe Lumumba (Winooski, Vt/S. Burlington) combined for the shutout.

The Saints now await Tuesday nights announcement of the Region 3 Playoff Bracket for their seeding and next opponent.

Middlebury -1
North Country -0

Goals
Middlebury
23:02 Nolan Link

Shots
North Country -18
Middlebury -8

Saves
North Country
Ryan Wignall -4
Adolphe Lumumba -2

Middlebury
Adam Liu -6
Eric Wilson -3

North Country Men's Soccer dropped another Non-Region match up on Thursday 1-0 to Middlebury College's JV squad. The Saints gave up a goal midway throught the 1st half. Harley Hollinshead (Derby, Eng/Littleover Comm.) hit the post and had another header cleared off the line in the first half.

The Saints missed 4 chances in the second half that could have tied the game.

North Country is now off until October 24th when they close out their regular season at Clinton. The Saints are now 12-2-1.

Goals
North Country
10:21 Ernest Afful assisted by Rhys Calvano
53:31 Randy Danso assisted by Ryan Geary

Jefferson CC
45:54 Dan Sharlow

Shots
North Country -16
Jefferson -8

Saves
Ryan Wignall North Country -6
Brandon Davis Jefferson -8

North Country Community College Men's Soccer Team (12-1-1) got all that it could handle from a feisty Jefferson CC team on Monday afternoon in Watertown. Ernest Afful (Columbus, OH/Northland) scored his 17th goal of the year 10 minutes in off of a Rhys Calvano (Luton, Eng/Stopsley) throw in. The Saints saw much of the possession but were unable to finish again in the first half.

Jefferson scored just after halftime when Forward Dan Sharlow took the ball from a Saints defender and tied the game at 1-1. The Saints began to play much quicker after the goal as it seemed to awaken them. Several chances were created and in the 54th minute Randy Danso (Toronto, ON/Don Mills) converted a Ryan Geary (Ogdensburg/OFA) pass putting the Saints back in front.

Jefferson created several late chances but were unable to tie the game. Ryan Wignall (Ogdensburg/OFA) made several key saves down the stretch to preserve the win.

The Saints are home to Middlebury JV's on Thursday at 4pm. It is North Country's final regular season home game.

North Country -5
Broome -2

Goals
North Country
1:12 Harley Hollinshead assisted by Chris Stephenson
41:17 Ernest Afful assisted by Liam Gilbert
68:41 Harley Hollinshead assisted by Rhys Calvano
76:50 Randy Danso
81:37 Rhys Calvano assisted by Liam Gilbert

Broome
20:45 Ryan Serbonich
21:13 Ermin Corbic

Shots
North Country -26
Broome -10

Saves
Erik Curley NCCC -2
Ryan Wignall NCCC -2

Chris Ousterout Broome -11

Harley Hollinshead (Derby, Eng/Littleover) scored a pair of goals to lead North Country Community College (11-1-1) past Broome CC 8-4. Hollinshead opened the scoring just a minute into the game when he headed in Chris Stephenson's (Boroughbridge, Eng/Boroughbridge) free kick.

Broome would regain their composure and dominated much of the next 20 minutes. Ryan Serbonich tied the game when he one a 50-50 ball and went in on goal alone and beat Saints keeper Eric Curley (South Glens Falls/South Glens Falls). Less than a minute later Ermin Corbic scored off of a free kick to give the Hornets a 2-1 advantage.

North Country evened the game with 4 minutes in the half when Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Toynebee School) played a ball to Ernest Afful (Columbus, OH/Northland) who finished to send the game to halftime tied at 2. The Saints would have the wind at their backs for the second half and finally took the lead back when Hollinshead headed in a loose ball on a corner kick.

Randy Danso (Toronto, ON/Don Mills) gave the Saints a 2 goal advantage when he found himself 1 v 1 with the last Broome defender just past midfield. Danso patiently waited for the Broome defender to commit and beat the goalkeeper to give the Saints some breathing room. Rhys Calvano (Luton, Eng/Stopsley) would score the games final goal converting a Gilbert free kick. Eric Curley and Ryan Wignall (Ogdensburg/OFA) combined for the win.

"The game was much closer than the score indicated. Broome was very good going forward. We finally were able to settle in and get the result. It was a physical and intense game but this is the way games will be in the regional playoffs so we need to be ready to compete each and every game," said Head Coach Adam Parker.

The Saints are at Jefferson CC on Monday at 1PM.

North Country Up to #4 in the Nation

North Country moved up 1 more spot to #4 in the recent NJCAA poll. The saints are ranked #2 in the coaches poll for Region 3 behind Herkimer but sit atop the standings with a 10-0-1 regional record. The Saints are ranked 1st in the region in scoring at 4.5 goals per game and are 2nd in goals against giving up .58 goals a game.

Saints forwards Ernest Afful and Randy Danso continue to be ranked near the top of the nation in scoring. Afful is 3rd with 15 goals and 7 assists for 37 points. Danso is 5th with 14 goals and 3 assists for 31 points. Midfielders Chris Stephenson and Liam Gilbert are tied for 25th with 5 goals and 8 assists each for 18 points.

The Saints will face Broome CCC Saturdat at 1pm in Saranac Lake. Broome is currently ranked 4th in the Region III Coaches Poll and are honorable mention in the current national poll.

North Country -4
Finger Lakes -0

Goals
North Country
43:54 Chris Stephenson assisted by Sahal Ismail
67:03 Randy Danso assisted by Earvin Esale
74:54 Randy Danso assisted by Serge Zola
77:40 Liam Gilbert assisted by Chris Stephenson

Shots
North Country -22
Finger Lakes -3

Saves
Zack Peck North Country -3
Shane Conley FLCC -10

North Country Community College Men’s Soccer (10-1-1) got their 10th win of the season Sunday against Finger Lakes CC. Chris Stephenson (Boroughbridge, Eng/Boroughbridge) scored a minute before halftime when Sahal Ismail (Leicester, Eng/Queen Elizabeth) took a quick short corner and Stephenson bent a shot into the top corner to put the Saints ahead. Despite having much of the possession the Saints would go into the half 1-0.

The game would hang in the balance until the midway point of the second half when Randy Danso (Toronto, ON/Don Mills) finished a breakaway after a header from Earvin Esale (London, Eng/3 Kings). Danso would get his 2nd of the game with 15 minutes remaining when the ball went wide to Serge Zola (Winooski, VT/Winooski) and Zola sent a cross in along the 6 and Danso finished it in the open net. Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Toynbee) would add the final goal off of an assist from Chris Stephenson.

“I was very pleased with the way we played this weekend. I thought we played very flowing soccer today and wore them down. Our movement is starting to come along,” said Coach Adam Parker.

The Saints are home to Broome CCC who are currently ranked in the top 5 of the region on Saturday at 1PM.

North Country -6
Genesee CC -0

Goals
North Country
2:45 Randy Danso assisted by Ernest Afful
19:27 Ernest Afful (Penalty)
27:15 Jeff Reynolds assisted by Liam Gilbert
33:34 Harley Hollinshead
51:16 Ryan Geary assisted by Chris Stephenson
61:29 Liam Gilbert assisted by Ernest Afful

Shots
North Country -28
Genesee CC -7

Saves
Zack Peck North Country -3
Eric Curley North Country -2

Matt Sheffield Genesee CC -11

North Country Community College Men's Soccer Team (9-1-1) got goals from 6 different players in a 6-0 defeat of Genesee CC. Randy Danso (Toronto, ON/Don Mills) score just under 3 minutes in when Ernest Afful (Columbus, OH/Northland) beat his defender and the ball slid across to Danso who tapped it in the open net. Afful would score 16 minutes later after being taken down in the box and converting a penalty kick. Jeff Reynolds (Indian Lake/Indian Lake) scored his first goal of his career on an assist from Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Toynebee School). The Saints went into the half up 4-0.

Sophomore Ryan Geary (Ogdensburg/OFA) scored after a beautiful build up by the Saints midfield. Serge Zola (Winooski, VT/Winooski) played a brilliant ball across the front of the defense and midfielder Chris Stephenson (Boroughbridge, Eng/Boroughbridge) slid the ball to Geary who drove the low shot past the goalkeeper. The final goal came from Liam Gilbert's 25 yard shot that skipped past the Cougars goalkeeper.

Zack Peck (Chateaugay/Chateaugay) made 3 saves in his first start for the Saints. Eric Curley (South Glens Falls/South Glens Falls) came in to preserve the Saints 5th shutout of the season.

"I was happy overall with our performance. The starters can still be sharper but given the wet conditions we were able to break them down. I was concerned heading in as Genesee hadn't given up a lot of goals this season but we got on top early," said Head Coach Adam Parker. "I was pleased with our bench today as well. They gave us a lot of quality minutes today."

The Saints are home to Finger Lakes at 2pm on Sunday.

Plattsburgh -2
North Country -0

Goals
Plattsburgh
54:31
69:12

Shots
Plattsburgh 13
North Country 7

Saves
Wignall North Country -8
Plattsburgh -4

North Country Men's Soccer suffered their first defeat of the season to Plattsburgh States Reserves 2-0 on Wednesday night. The Saints (8-1-1) struggled to possess the ball against Plattsburgh. "The speed of the game was a lot faster than what we regularly play against," said Coach Adam Parker. "We need these games to raise our level and push as we enter the final stretch of the regular season. We defended well but continue to struggle with defending set plays."

The first goal came off of a free kick that was crossed in from 40 yards out. A Plattsburgh attacker headed the deep cross back across the goal mouth and the Cardinals headed it into the open net. The 2nd goal resulted from a weak goal kick and a Plattsburgh forward dribbling Saints Goalkeeper Ryan Wignall (Ogdensburg/OFA) and sliding it into the empty goal.

North Country will look to get back on track Saturday at 4pm against Genesee CC in Saranac Lake.

Saints Ranked #5, Afful and Wignall Receive National Honors

The North Country Saints with their 8-0-1 record moved up in the NJCAA National Poll to #5 this week. The Saints will take on the Plattsburgh Reserves this evening at Plattsburgh State University. Kickoff is at 7PM.

Ernest Afful (Columbus, OH/Northland) has been named the NJCAA National Player of the Week for Week 5 of the season. This is Afful's 2nd National POW award this season.

Goalkeeper Ryan Wignall (Ogdensburg, NY/OFA) has been named the NJCAA National Goalkeeper of the Week for week 5. Wignall allowed 2 goals in 3 games over the week recording 21 saves.

For the press releases, please visit.
http://www.njcaa.org/sports_polls.cfm?category=Polls&sid=18&divid=3&slid=9

http://www.njcaa.org/newsArticle.cfm?articleId=9257

North Country -1
Herkimer -1

Goals
North Country
41:14 Ernest Afful Penalty Kick

Herkimer
11:22 Joey Lontrato

Shots
North Country -13
Herkimer        -15

Saves
North Country   Ryan Wignall -8
Herkimer          James Taber -6

#6 ranked North Country Community College (8-0-1) tied #1 Herkimer CCC 1-1 Sunday in Saranac Lake, NY.

The Generals got on the board first when Joey Lontrato scored on a free kick 11 minutes into the game. The Saints speed up front caused Herkimer some problems and they were rewarded with a penalty when Ernest Afful (Columbus, OH/Northland) was brought down in the box with just under 5 minutes in the half. Afful converted the penalty and the game went to halftime 1-1.

The second half saw Herkimer with much of the possession as fatigue set in on the Saints who played their 2nd game in 2 days. The Saints were able to hold off the Generals and get the game to overtime. In the 2nd overtime, Herkimer midfielder Ted Cribley found the post when his flick on sailed past Saints goalkeeper Ryan Wignall (Ogdensburg/OFA). The Saints were denied by Generals goalkeeper James Taber with 1 minute left when Chris Stephenson’s (Boroughbridge, Eng/Boroughbridge) was deflected wide.

“I was very proud of our effort today. It wasn’t pretty on our part but we were determined to get out with a result. It was a total team effort. We no doubt need to improve in some areas to be able to beat a team like Herkimer at the end of the season. I think our guys see that and will focus on improving,” said Coach Adam Parker.

The Saints face Plattsburgh “B” Wednesday night at 7pm at Plattsburgh State University.

North Country -4
MVCC             -1

Goals
North Country
15:59 Randy Danso
33:01 Liam Gilbert assisted by Rhys Calvano
76:20 Rhys Calvano assisted by Liam Gilbert
82:38 Harley Hollinshead assisted by Liam Gilbert

Mohawk Valley
7:28 Oraine Pringle


Shots
North Country -14
MVCC             -10

Saves
North Country      Ryan Wignall -6
Mohawk Valley    Shane Sullivan -8

North Country Community College’s Men’s Soccer Team (8-0) beat Mohawk Valley Community College (6-3) by a score of 4-1 on Saturday afternoon in Saranac Lake. Mohawk Valley’s Oraine Pringle opened the scoring in the 9th minute on a corner when he headed it in on the line. North Country evened the score when a shot by Ernest Afful (Columbus, OH/Northland) was saved by the goalkeeper but Saints Forward Randy Danso (Toronto, ON/Don Mills) headed in a rebound. It was Danso’s 11th goal of the year. Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Toynebee School) would put the Saints ahead 12 minutes before halftime when Rhys Calvano (Luton, Eng/Stopsley) headed down a ball and Gilbert blasted the left footed shot into the back of the net.

The 2nd was an even battle with Mohawk Valley winning several chances on corner kicks but were unable to convert. The Saints would find the goal again with 14 minutes remaining when Liam Gilbert sent a free kick into the box and Rhys Calvano beat his defender to score his first goal as a Saint. 7 minutes later it was another defender getting on the end of a Gilbert free kick. This time it was Harley Hollinshead (Derby, Eng/Littleover) who beat his man and slipped it into the far corner to give the Saints a 4-1 victory.

Ryan Wignall (Ogdensburg/OFA) made 6 saves for the Saints. Mohawk Valley’s Shane Sullivan made 8 saves for the Hawks.

“We knew that this was going to be one of our toughest weekends of the year. Mohawk Valley’s physical and direct style is difficult to handle. We have come from behind 3 times this season so I was happy we didn’t panic when we went down. It was a total team effort today but it will take even more tomorrow,” said Head Coach Adam Parker.

The Saints are currently 2nd in the region and 6th in the NJCAA National Poll. They will take on Herkimer CCC on Sunday at 3pm in Saranac Lake. Herkimer is currently the #1 ranked team in the Country and Region III.

North Country -8
Clinton              -0

Goals
8:51 Ernest Afful assisted by Earvin Esale
10:42 Ernest Afful assisted Chris Stephenson
13:45 Chris Stephenson assisted by Serge Zola
36:55 Liam Gilbert assisted by Ernest Afful
46:29 Serge Zola asssited by Chris Stephenson
54:17 Randy Danso assisted by Sahal Ismail
59:38 Ernest Afful assisted by Eric Curley
60:57 Ernest Afful assisted by Liam Gilbert

Shots
North Country -30
Clinton           -13

Saves
North Country Ryan Wignall-4
                    Adolphe Lumumba-3
Clinton           Adam Manor-10

Ernest Afful (Columbus, OH/Northland) led the North Country Saints (7-0) with 4 goals against Clinton CC (3-4) on Wednesday afternoon. Chris Stephenson (Boroughbridge, Eng/Boroughbridge) added a goal and 2 assists for the Saints.

Afful and Stephenson scored the first 3 goals for the Saints in the first 15 minutes of the game. Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Toynebee School) would get his 2nd goal of the year with 8 minutes left in the 1st half to give the Saints a 4-0 lead.

Serge Zola (Winooski, VT/Winooski) opened the 2nd half scoring just a minute and a half in on an assist from Stephenson. Randy Danso (Toronto, ON/Don Mills) headed in a Sahal Ismail (Leicester, Eng/Queen Elizabeth) 8 minutes later. Afful would net his 3rd and 4th goals on assists from Eric Curley (South Glens Falls/South Glens Falls) and Gilbert to close out the scoring.

Kade Sewell had a good game for the Cougars and Adam Manor made 10 saves in goal.

"We relied a bit too much on athleticism today," said Coach Adam Parker. "This weekend is going to be a huge test for us with Mohawk Valley and Herkimer coming into town. They are ranked #1 and #2 in the region and we will need a complete performance to get the results we need."

North Country is home Saturday to Mohawk Valley at 4pm. The Saints are home again on Sunday against NJCAA ranked #1 Herkimer at 3pm. North Country is currently ranked #6 nationally in this weeks poll.

North Country -10
Erie CC              -0

Goals
5:03 Randy Danso assisted by Chris Stephenson
7:38 Ernest Afful assisted by Chris Stephenson
8:32 Chris Lashomb assisted by Chris Stephenson
18:40 Ernest Afful assisted by Chris Lashomb
20:41 Randy Danso assisted by Ernest Afful
48:54 Randy Danso assisted by Ernest Afful
49:03 Randy Danso
52:59 Randy Danso assisted by Serge Zola
54:04 Ernest Afful assisted by Rhys Calvano
68:57 Chris Stephenson assisted by Liam Gilbert

Shots
NCCC  -22
Erie    -7

Saves
Wignall     NCCC -5
Adolphe    NCCC -0

Pierce       Erie -5

The North Country Saints came out and put Erie CC away early on Sunday with 3 goals in the first 10 minutes from Randy Danso (Toronto, ON/Don Mills), Ernest Afful (Columbus, OH/Northland) and Chris Lashomb (Massena/Massena). Chris Stephenson (Boroughbridge, Eng/Boroughbridge) assisted on each goal. Danso and Afful would add two more to make it 5-0 by halftime.

Danso would add 3 goals in the second half to end with 5 for the game. Afful and Chris Stephenson also scored in the second half. Picking up assists were Serge Zola (Winooski, VT/Winooski), Rhys Calvano (Luton, Eng/Stopsley), and Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Southampton).

Ryan Wignall (Ogdensburg/OFA) and Adolphe Lumumba (Winooski, VT/S. Burlington) combined for the Saints 3rd shutout of the season.

The Saints are home to Clinton CC on Wednesday at 4PM.

North Country -6
FMCC -1

Goals
NCCC

42:02 Chris Stephenson
57:01 Randy Danso assisted by Ernest Afful
64:13 Randy Danso assisted by Sahal Ismail
66:42 Ryan Geary
69:45 Harley Hollinshead assisted by Sahal Ismail
81:51 Sahal Ismail assisted by Liam Gilbert

FMCC
37:19 VJay Rathore

Shots
NCCC -22
FMCC -5

Saves
NCCC    Danny Craggs   -2
            Ryan Wignall    -4

FMCC    Casey Jensen -10

North Country Men’s Soccer (5-0) defeated Fulton-Montgomery (2-3) 6-1 on Saturday in Saranac Lake. Despite several early chances the Saints could not get on the scoreboard. It was a goal in transition in the 38th minute by FMCC’s V.J. Rathore that put the Raiders in front.

North Country evened the score 3 minutes before halftime when Chris Stephenson (Boroughbridge, Eng/Boroughbridge) drove a shot into the lower left hand corner of the goal from 18 yards out off of a corner. 12 minutes into the 2nd half the Saints got the go ahead goal from Randy Danso (Toronto, ON/Don Mills). Danso was given a beautiful cross by Ernest Afful (Columbus, OH/Northland) and headed it at the back post. Danso would get his 2nd 7 minutes later when Sahal Ismail (Leicester, Eng/Queen Elizabeth) drove a ball into the box and Danso slipped it past the goalkeeper to put the Saints up 3-1.

2 more goals in the next 5 minutes by Ryan Geary (Ogdensburg/Ogdensburg) and Harley Hollinshead (Derby, Eng/Littleover Community) off of a Sahal Ismail corner put the Saints ahead 5-1. Ismail would get his first goal of the season with 8 minutes remaining on an assist from Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Toynebee School) to close out the scoring.

“They are a very difficult team to play against so we are happy to get a win today. They are physical and have some dangerous players who could hurt us if we fell asleep,” said Coach Adam Parker. “We finally began to finish our chances though and that has been something that has plagued us so far.”

The Saints are home to Erie CC on Sunday at 1PM.

Ernest Afful (Columbus, OH/Northland) has been named the Region III Athlete of the Week for Week 3 of the fall season. Ernest scored 5 goals and had 1 assist in 3 wins for the Saints this week.

Wednesday he had an assist that tied the game against Delhi in the Saints 2-1 come from behind win. On Saturday Afful recorded a hat trick in the Saints 4-1 win over #14 ranked Hudson Valley. On Sunday Afful added 2 more goals including the game winner against Adirondack CC in a 6-0 win.

For more information check out:http://www.region3athletics.org/

North Country - 6

Adirondack      - 0

Goals

North Country  

15:11     Ernest Afful assisted by Randy Danso

34:51     Zack Peck assisted by Liam Gilbert

39:18     Liam Gilbert

53:45     Ernest Afful

60:24     Randy Danso assisted by Liam Gilbert

88:33     Zack Peck assisted by Jeff Reynolds

Shots

North Country  - 22

Adirondack       - 2

Saves

Danny Craggs     NCCC - 1           Ryan Wignall      NCCC - 1

Dustin Greco      ACC - 13

The #10 ranked North Country Community College Men’s Soccer (4-0) finished off their weekend with a 6-0 victory over Adirondack CC (0-2) in Queensbury on Sunday.  The Saints got on the board in the 16^th minute when Ernest Afful (Columbus, OH/Northland) scored his 4^th goal of the season from Randy Danso (Toronto, ON/Don Mills).  The Saints would go up 2-0 with 11 minutes remaining in the half when Sophomore Zack Peck (Chateaugay/Chateaugay) finished on a corner from Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Toynebee School).  It was Gilbert’s turn 5 minutes from halftime on a free kick that deflected off the wall into the ACC goal. 

The Saints went up 4-0 on Afful’s 2^nd goal of the game in the 54^th minute.  Forward Randy Danso headed in a Liam Gilbert corner kick for his 2^nd goal of the year and Zack Peck added a late finish to round out the scoring.   

Danny Craggs (Sunderland, Eng/Lornshill) and Ryan Wignall (Ogdensburg/OFA) each made 1 save to combine for the shutout.  Dustin Greco of ACC made 13 saves.

Zack Peck was named the Players’ Player of the Game.

The Saints are now 4-0 and will next play Fulton-Montgomery CC on Saturday September 19^th at 3:30 in Saranac Lake. 

North Country - 4

Hudson Valley - 1

Goals

North Country                   10:14     Ernest Afful assisted by Randy Danso

                                      15:24     Ernest Afful assisted by Liam Gilbert

                                      62:49     Ryan Geary unassisted

                                      85:11     Ernest Afful assisted by Randy Danso

Hudson Valley                    47:51     Colin Legge

Shots

North Country - 31

Hudson Valley - 12

Saves

Danny Craggs     NCCC - 7

Nick Papas          HVCC - 3

The #10 ranked North Country Community College Men’s Soccer (3-0) beat #14 ranked Hudson Valley Community College (2-3) 4-1 Saturday in Saranac Lake, NY.  The Saints jumped out early on the Vikings.  Randy Danso (Toronto, ON/Don Mills) and Ernest Afful’s (Columbus, OH/Northland) movement up front created several chances early.  Afful scored his first of the day 10 minutes in when Danso beat his man and slid the ball across 6 and Afful slipped it into the open net.  Afful would get his 2^nd just 5 minutes later when Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Toynebee School) played a through ball and Afful beat the goalkeeper and finished.  North Country had several other chances to put the game away but Hudson Valley settled down and dominated much of the final 15 minutes of the 1^st half. 

Just 3 minutes after halftime the Vikings would get on the board when Colin Legge beat 3 defenders and drove a left footed shot past Saints Goalkeeper Danny Craggs (Sunderland, Eng/Lornshill).  North Country was able to hold off several other chances by the Vikings and switched formations to slow Hudson Valley’s attack.  Sophomore Ryan Geary(Ogdensburg/OFA) give the Saints an insurance goal when he collected a deflected shot and drove it into the lower left hand corner of the net beating Vikings goalkeeper Nick Papas in the 63^rd minute.  Finally it was Ernest Afful with his 3^rd goal of the game assisted by Randy Danso with just under 5 minutes remaining. 

Danny Craggs had 7 saves for the Saints while Nick Papas had 3 saves for the Vikings. 

Ernest Afful was selected as player of the game. 

The Saints now 3-0 take on Adirondack CC on Sunday, September 13^th at 12pm in Queensbury. 

North Country - 2

SUNY Delhi - 1

Goals

NCCC     Randy Danso 24:39 assisted by Ernest Afful

            Chris Stephenson 73:44 assisted by Jeff Reynolds

Delhi      Miguel Short 6:21 asssited by John Bellinger

Shots

NCCC - 11

Delh - 6

Saves

Danny Craggs-NCCC - 4

Mike Economou-Delhi -5

Nationally Ranked #10 North Country Community College (2-0) pulled out a come from behind 2-1 victory yesterday at SUNY Delhi (1-2).  Delhi got on the board early off of a corner kick on a header by Miguel Short assisted by John Bellinger.  The Saints with several key injuries and a makeshift line up on the field, were able to tie the game before half time when Ernest Afful (Columbus, OH/Northland) beat his man down the right side and sent a cross to the foot of Randy Danso (Toronto, ON/Don Mills) who put it into an open net. 

The Saints struggled to possess the ball against the hard working Broncos but were able to break the tie on Chris Stephenson’s (Boroughbridge, Eng/Boroughbridge) beautiful goal from 25 yards out.  Stephenson took a pass from Jeff Reynolds (Indian Lake/Indian Lake) and drilled it into the upper right hand corner. 

Danny Craggs (Sunderland, Eng/Lornshill Academy) made 3 great saves in the final 15 minutes to preserve the win for North Country. 

“It is a long trip to Delhi, so getting out of there with a win was important.  We didn’t play the way know we are capable of, but even an ugly win is a win and to win on the road in our conference is huge,” said Head Coach Adam Parker. 

“This weekend we have #14 Hudson Valley coming to town on Saturday and we will need a much better performance on Saturday to have success against them.”

Chris Stephenson was voted as the Player’s Player of the Game. 

North Country is home to Hudson Valley on Saturday at 3PM. 

North Country -3

Cayuga CC -0

Goals

18:38 Harley Hollinshead (Derby, Eng) assisted by Christian Mejia (New York, NY)

72:19 Serge Zola (Winooski, VT) assisted by Ryan Geary (Ogdensburg, NY)

85:47 Zach Peck (Chateaugay, NY) assisted by Ryan Geary (Ogdensburgh, NY)

Shots    

NCCC - 25

Cayuga - 1

Saves

Danny Craggs- NCCC - 1

Josh Birch-Cayuga - 9

North Country Saints (1-0) kicked off their 2009 season with a victory over Cayuga CC (0-2-1) with a 3-0 win.  The Saints controlled much of the play early but were unable to break through the Cayuga defense, especially the Spartans Center Back Danny Browne.  Harley Hollinshead (Derby, Eng/Littleover Comm) scored in the 19^th minute off of a rebound from a header by Christian Mejia (New York/MLK).  The Saints continued to control the game throughout and finally broke the game open on Serge Zola’s (Winooski, VT/Winooski) blast from 25 yards out assisted by Ryan Geary (Ogdensburg/OFA).  Substitute Zack Peck (Chateaugay/Chateaugay) rounded out the scoring adding a late goal from inside the 6 from Ryan Geary. 

Danny Craggs (Sunderland, Eng/Lornshill) picked up his first shutout of the season in goal for the Saints. 

“As a whole I was happy with our performance.  They were very organized and we just aren’t sharp enough yet to finish a lot of the chances we had which let them hang around,” said Coach Adam Parker.  “Chris Stephenson and Liam Gilbert both had great games in the start of their sophomore seasons and know what it takes to get the job done in the midfield.  We hope to build on this result on Wednesday.” 

Harley Hollinshead was voted by the team as the Player’s Player of the Game.

North Country plays at SUNY Delhi Wednesday. 

Graduating Saints To Continue Careers at 4 Year Schools

James Flaherty (London, Eng/St. Michael’s), Craig Peacock (Boroughbridge, Eng/Boroughbridge) and Mekangeldi Hellenov (Ashgabat, Turkmenistan/Olimpic School) will each continue their collegiate soccer careers at other schools this coming fall. 

James Flaherty, a sophomore captain has signed a scholarship offer to attend Dominican College in Orangeburg, NY.  James, who will graduate with a liberal arts degree in May from North Country scored 10 goals and had 12 assists in his 2 years at North Country.  “James had 3 great programs that offered him scholarships.  I think he was really impressed by the direction of the program at Dominican and felt that gave him the best chance to play in a NCAA Tournament,” said Head Coach Adam Parker. 

Craig Peacock, a 2 year starter as a center back and the other team captain in 2008, will be on scholarship at Weber International University in Lake Wales, FL.  Craig was the backbone of the Saints defense that recorded 9 shutouts in 2008.  “Craig was our most valuable player in his first season at North Country.  His ability to read the game and organize what is going on in front of him will be his biggest asset at the next level,” said Parker. 

Mekan Hellenov will be transferring to Rochester Institute of Technology.  Hellenov found his role as the defensive center midfielder for the Saints in 2008.  He had such in impact that he was named the team’s Most Improved Player.  “Mekan’s work rate in the midfield defensively allowed our playmakers to take more chances,” said Coach Parker. 

Parker added, “It is great to win games and make the playoffs but it is just as rewarding when you have players that have put in the hard work in the classroom and on the field to get to the next level.”  All three student-athletes will graduate with GPA’s above 3.0.

Several other sophomores are still in the decision making process of where they will play next year. 

Saints October Athlete of the Month-Mekangeldi Hellenov

The Athletic Department is pleased to announce Mekangeldi Hellenov as the October Saints Player of the Month.  

Hellenov is from Ashgabat Turkmenistan.  He is currently in the Graphic Design Program.  He is planning on continuing his education and soccer career at Rochester Institute of Technology next year.  

2008 NJCAA All Region Teams Announced

Herkimer, NY—The Region 3 coaches have selected their 2008 All Region Teams.   Forward Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Toynebee School) was selected to the First Team while Defender James Allen (Hoo,Eng/Hundred of Hoo) was a Second Team Selection. 

“Liam and James played a huge part in our turn around this year.  I am happy that the coaches from the Region recognized their efforts,” said Coach Adam Parker. 

October 28th, 2008          Herkimer, NY

North Country     -0

SUNY Delhi         -4

Scoring Summary

Goal   Time      Team         Scorer                    Assist                       Description_____

1. 60:01     Delhi      Anis Makaren                                       Shot from 12 yds out
2. 66:24     Delhi      Anis Makaren
3. 72:09     Delhi      Anis Makaren
4. 78:42     Delhi      Kevin Brodie

The North Country Saints season came to an end on Tuesday with a 4-0 loss to SUNY Delhi, the number 3 seed in this year’s Regional Tournament.  The game was moved to Herkimer due to the snow storm on Monday night at Delhi that left 3 inches of snow on their field.  The game started in difficult conditions.  Strong winds and rain turned into snow midway throught the first half.  North Country’s best chances came off early corner kicks when they had 2 chances cleared off the goal line.  

Unable to get a goal in the first half with a slight wind advantage, the Saints knew they would have to be sharp in the second half in order to advance.  The second half started on a snow covered field and Delhi would break through 15 minutes into the second half.  Anis Makaren scored the first of his three goals off of a counterattack.  He would his 2^nd and 3^rd goals in the next 12 minutes.  Kevin Brodie sealed the game for the Broncos on an open net in the 78^th minute. 

The Broncos, 14-2-1 are now in the Regional Semi-Final against Alfred State the #2 seed. 

“Although it is an odd way for our season to end, I am proud of what the guys accomplished this year.  The program has taken a huge leap forward and the sophomores playing in their last game today have had a key role in turning the program around.   We will look to build on that going into next season,” said  Head Coach Adam Parker. 

October 28^th, 2008

Saranac Lake, NY—Liam Gilbert Named Region 3 Athlete of the Week for 2^nd Time This Fall

October 18th, 2008          Johnstown, NY

North Country                   -6

Fulton Montgomery CC        -1

Scoring Summary

Goal   Time    Team        Scorer                  Assist                         Description_____

1. 9:50     NCCC    James Allen         James Flaherty       Off Corner Shot from inside box
2. 10:00   NCCC    Ryan Geary         Liam Gilbert            Header over the keeper
3. 21:10   NCCC    Liam Gilbert         James Flaherty       Shot from 20 yds
4. 44:10   NCCC    Kiel Mullen          James Allen            Shot from inside the box
5. 50:02   FMCC    Bobby Dufort                                  Penalty Kick
6. 54:45   NCCC    Kenny Rutkowski                             Beat 2 Defenders off Dribble
7. 61:33   NCCC    Liam Gilbert         Chris Stephenson

Shots

NCCC     -24

FMCC     -9

Saves

NCCC     -5

FMCC     -13

Corners

NCCC     -3

FMCC     -2

Johnstown, NY— It took the North Country Saints just :50 to get on the board Saturday at Fulton-Montgomery CC.  James Allen (Hoo, Eng/Hundred of Hoo) scored his first goal of the season when he buried a shot from 16 yds out into the bottom right hand corner off of James Flaherty’s (London, Eng/St. Michael’s) corner kick.  Ryan Geary (Ogdensburg/Ogdensburg Free Academy) would get his 8^th goal of when he headed a ball over the FMCC goalkeeper on an assist from Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Toynebee School).  Gilbert would get his 15^th goal of the year several minutes later when he hit a rocket from outside the box that found the net.  Flaherty would get the assist again.  The final goal of the first half came from Kiel Mullen (Bedworth, Eng/Warwickshire) who took James Allen’s cross and scored.  

The second half saw the Saints give up their first goal in 3 games when the ball hit the hand of a Saints defender and FMCC were awarded a penalty kick.  Bobby Dufort converted to cut the score to 4-1.  The Saints got the next goal when Kenny Rutkowski (Burlington, Vt/Essex) beat two defenders and finished for his 9^th goal of the season and 4^th in 2 games.  Liam Gilbert  rounded out the scoring for the day when he finished Chris Stephenson’s (Boroughbridge, Eng/Boroughbridge). 

Zack Peck (Chateaugay/Chateaugay) made 5 saves and finishes the regular season with a 1.3 goals against average. 

The Saints finish the regular season 11-3-1. 

North Country’s Gilbert Named Region 3 Athlete of the Week

October 14th , 2008         Saranac Lake, NY

North Country      -7

Clinton CC           -0

Scoring Summary

Goal   Time     Team           Scorer                Assist                        Description____

1. 7:48     NCCC     Kenny Rutkowski    James Flaherty         Long Ball over top and finish
2. 11:47     NCCC    Kenny Rutkowski   Liam Gilbert              Took Pass at 18 dribbled GK
3. 17:36     NCCC    Liam Gilbert          Chris Stephenson      One Touch Finish
4. 26:47     NCCC    Chris Stephenson                               Rebound off cross bar
5. 50:52     NCCC    Kenny Rutkowski   Liam Gilbert
6. 53:45     NCCC    James Flaherty     Jake Losey               Chipped GK
7. 62:56     NCCC    Chris Stephenson  Ryan Geary              Half Volley off Cross

Shots

NCCC      -26

CCC        -4

Saves

NCCC      -4

CCC        -13

Corners

NCCC      -4

CCC        - 1

Saranac Lake, NY—North Country’s Men’s Soccer Team reached the 10 win mark on Tuesday after a 7-0 win at home against the Clinton Cougars.  Kenny Rutkowski (Burlington, VT/Essex) broke out of a scoring slump with 3 goals.  Chris Stephenson (Boroughbridge, Eng/Boroughbridge) added 2 goals and an assist.  Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Toynebee School) the team’s leading scorer had a goal and 2 assists.  James Flaherty (London, Eng/St. Michael’s) also scored for the Saints. 

“It was a fun game to watch today,” said Coach Adam Parker.  “We made a few mistakes early in back that luckily didn’t cost us or the game could have went much different.”

North Country is 10-3-1 and closes out their regular season on Saturday at Fulton-Montgomery. 

October 12th , 2008         Auburn, NY

North Country       -8

Cayuga CC           -0

Scoring Summary

Goal   Time      Team           Scorer              Assist                        Description_____

1. 5:07       NCCC     Liam Gilbert          Jake Losey             Diving Header
2. 15:08     NCCC     Jake Losey           Kenny Rutkowski     Finish from 12 yds
3. 16:39     NCCC     James Flaherty     Chris Stephenson     Shot from 25 yds Upper Corner
4. 25:10     NCCC     Chris Stephenson  Kiel Mullen
5. 50:55     NCCC     Kevin Patanella     Ryan Geary             Finish inside 6 off cross
6. 58:31     NCCC     Kenny Rutkowski   Liam Gilbert             Finish inside 6 off cross
7. 69:30     NCCC     Chris LaShomb      Jake Losey              Deflection off Cross
8. 84:11     NCCC     Kiel Mullen

Shots

NCCC      -26

CCC        -2

Saves

NCCC      -1

CCC        -14

Corners

NCCC      -3

CCC        -0

Auburn, NY— North Country’s Men’s Soccer Program continued its winning ways Sunday with a 8-0 win at Cayuga CC.  Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Toynebee School) took Jake Losey’s (Massena/Massena) cross and finished with a diving header just 5 minutes in.  10 minutes later Jake Losey found the net off an assist from Kenny Rutkowski (Burlington, VT/Essex).  James Flaherty (London,Eng/St. Michael’s) would scrore the Saints 3^rd goal when he bent a shot from 25 yards out around the Cayuga keeper into the upper corner.  The final goal of the half would come from Chris Stephenson (Boroughbridge, Eng/Boroughbridge.

In the second half, Kevin Patanella (Caledonia/Caledonia-Mumford), Kenny Rutkowski, Chris LaShomb (Massena/Massena) and Kiel Mullen (Bedworth, Eng/Warwickshire) each scored to round out the scoring.  Zack Peck (Chateaugay/Chateaugay) was in goal for his 7^th shutout of the season.

North Country finishes 8 straight games on the road with a 6-2 record and moves to 9-3-1 overall.  They host Clinton on Tuesday November 14^th at 4pm.

October 11th , 2008         Binghamton, NY

North Country    -6

Broome CC         -3

Scoring Summary

Goal   Time     Team         Scorer             Assist                              Description__

1. 26:49     NCCC     Liam Gilbert        Ryan Geary                     Header on Corner
2. 29:40     NCCC     Liam Gilbert        James Flaherty                Finish from 12 yds
3. 34:40     BCC       Ryan Serbonovich                                    Loose Ball in Box
4. 48:05     BCC       Ryan O’Connor                                        Loose Ball in Box
5. 52:15     BCC       Ryan O’Connor                                        Breakaway
6. 54:15     NCCC     Liam Gilbert       James Flaherty
7. 63:00     NCCC     James Flaherty   Ryan Geary                     Breakaway
8. 76:59     NCCC     Liam Gilbert                                            Rebound in box
9. 83:33     NCCC     Kiel Mullen        Kenny Rutkowski               Scramble in Box

Shots

NCCC                     -18

BCC                        -8

Saves

NCCC                      -4

BCC                        -9

Corners

NCCC                       -5

BCC                         -5

Binghamton, NY— The North Country Saints pulled out a 6-3 victory in after squandering a 2-0 lead on Saturday at Broome CC.  North Country’s opened the scoring on a Liam Gilbert’s (Southampton,Eng/Toynebee School) header from Ryan Geary’s corner kick (Ogdensburg/Ogdensburg Free Academy).  Gilbert would get his second goal 3 minutes later.  Broome would fight back as a loss would put them in jeopardy of not qualifying for regionals.  A goal in the 34^th minute and two by Ryan O’Connor would give Broome a 3-2 lead just 8 minutes into the second half. 

The stunned Saints would rebound.  Liam Gilbert would tie the game at 3-3 in the 55^th minute.  James Flaherty (London, Eng/St. Michael’s) would be credited with the assist.  Flaherty scored what would be the game winner 8 minutes later on a breakaway after a beautiful 1-2 in the middle of the field with Ryan Geary. 

Gilbert would score his 4^th of the game with 14 minutes remaining and Kiel Mullen (Bedworth,Eng/Warwickshire) would get his 3^rd goal of the season to finish the scoring.  The Saints moved to 9-3-1 on the season and face Cayuga CC on Sunday. 

October 5th , 2008           Canandaigua, NY

North Country     -2

Finger Lakes CC   -0

Scoring Summary

Goal       Time      Team     Scorer               Assist                  Description__

1. 25:00     NCCC     Liam Gilbert       Chris Stephenson     Bent Ball in Far Post from Rt
2. 41:30     NCCC     Kiel Mullen         Chris LaShomb         Volley off Cross

Shots

NCCC     -15

FLCC      -8

Saves

NCCC     -4

FL CC    -10

Corners

NCCC      -3

FLCC      - 4

Canandaigua, NY— The North Country Saints moved to 7-3-1 on Sunday after a 2-0 win at Finger Lakes Community College.  The Lakers came out putting pressure on the Saints with their speed on the flanks. 

North Country was able to keep them off the board though and broke through when Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Toynebee School) took a pass from Chris Stephenson (Boroughbridge, Eng/Boroughbridge) and curled it around the Lakers goalkeeper to put the Saints up 1-0.  The Saints would go up 2-0 just before half when Kiel Mullen (Bedworth, Eng/Warwickshire) found himself in alone in the penalty area and volleyed home Chris LaShomb’s (Massena/Massena) cross. 

The second half was evenly matched and Zack Peck came up with a few late saves to preserve the win for the Saints and his 6^th shutout of the season.  “This was a huge weekend for our team.  With things starting to shape up for regionals we needed to have some victories over teams that are going to be in the tournament.  We competed this weekend and are happy with our direction,” said Coach Adam Parker.

The Saints will be off until October 11^th when they travel to Binghamton to play Broome CC who are fighting for a spot in the regionals. 

October 4th , 2008           Batavia, NY

North Country    -3

Genesee CC       -1

Scoring Summary

Goal   Time      Team       Scorer           Assist               Description

1. 14:17     NCCC    Liam Gilbert      Ryan Geary          Turned And Shot from 12 yds
2. 24:10     NCCC    Ryan Geary      Jake Losey           Keeper Misplayed Ball In Box
3. 22:01     GCC      Jorge Zapata                             Beat Defender and Keeper 1V1
4. 35:42     NCCC  James Flaherty   Chris Stephenson   Free Kick Cros-Finish from 12 yd

Shots

NCCC                -13

Genesee CC       -11

Saves

NCCC                -6

Genesee CC       -11

Corners

NCCC               -5

Genesee CC       -3

Batavia, NY— The North Country Saints fought hard to beat Genesee CC 3-1 on Saturday.   North Country’s great ball movement 14 minutes in set up Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng /Toynebee School) for his sixth goal of the season.  He was assisted by Ryan Geary (Ogdensburg/Ogdensburg Free Academy) who would get his seventh goal of the season just 10 minutes later.  He was assisted by Jake Losey (Massena/Massena).  

The game was back and forth as Genesee’s dangerous forwards and quick ball movement created problems for the Saints.  Jorge Zapata’s hard work pulled Genesee within one when he beat a North Country defender and slipped the ball past Saints Goalkeeper Zack Peck. (Chateaugay/Chateaugay).  The Saints would get an insurance goal with 10 minutes to play in the half from James Flaherty (London, Eng/St. Michael’s) off of Chris Stephenson’s (Boroughbridge, Eng/Boroughbridge) free kick.  

The second half saw several key chances turned away by Peck.   Defenders James Allen (Hoo, England/Hundred of Hoo), Craig Peacock (Boroughbridge, Eng/Boroughbridge) and Kyler Clark (South Glens Falls/South Glens Falls) fought hard to keep Genesee off the board. 

“It was a great team effort today.  We were fortunate to get the early goals to put the pressure on them.  It is our third weekend in a row on the road.  We needed good results this weekend to get us closer to regionals,” said Adam Parker. 

The Saints are now 6-3-1 and at Finger Lakes CC tomorrow at 2pm.

September 28, 2008        Herkimer, NY

North Country     -0

Herkimer             -5

Goal   Time    Team         Scorer                Assist                  Description___

1. 2:24      HCCC     Lee Martins      Karyim Bouemboue      1 V 1 w/GK
2. 30:20     HCCC     Lee Martins     Karyim Bouemboue
3. 35:20     HCCC     Lee Martins     Karyim Bouemboue
4. 42:30     HCCC     Lee Martins
5. 75:46     HCCC     Biko Edwars    Emmanuel Yovance      Rebound Off Corner

Shots

NCCC     -4

HCCC     -19

Saves

NCCC     -6

MVCC     -2

Corners

NCCC     -5

MVCC    -11

Herkimer, NY—The long weekend for the Saints Men’s Soccer Team continued as they fell to regional power Herkimer CCC 5-0.  Already an underdog, the Saints had 2 starters out due to injury and 2 to suspension. 

Herkimer jumped on the board quickly on a goal from Lee Martins.  The Saints would have their two best chances of the day to tie.  James Allen’s (Hoo, England/Hundred of Hoo) header was palmed away by General’s Goalkeeper James Taber.  Kenny Rutkowski (Burlington, Vt/Essex) found himself free in the penalty area 10 minutes later but was unable to finish.  Lee Martins would net his 2nd, 3^rd and 4^th goals before the end of the half and give Herkimer a 4-0 lead.

The Saints fought until the final whistle and gave up 1 second half goal to Biko Edwards on a rebound in the penalty area. 

“We were outmatched today by far.  We did some good things though and hopefully we can improve on our mistakes from this weekend,” said Coach Adam Parker.

The Saints, 5-3-1, are at Genesee CC and Finger Lakes for two key Region 3 match ups next weekend.   

September 27, 2008        Utica, NY

North Country   -1

Mohawk Valley  -3

Goal   Time      Team        Scorer           Assist                Description____

1. 32:40     NCCC     Ryan Geary                          Tackle Defender, Near Post Shot
2. 57:45     MVCC   Justin Little     Brandon Butts    Break Away
3. 60:50     MVCC   Oraine Pringle  Jason Conklin     Finish  1V1 w/GK
4. 71:21     MVCC   Oraine Pringle                         Rebound of f Crossbar

Shots

NCCC     -8

MVCC    -14

Saves

NCCC     -8

MVCC    -3

Corners

NCCC     -3

MVCC    -3

Utica, NY—The North Country Saints Men’s Soccer Team saw defeat for their first time in 5 games on Saturday with a 3-1 loss at Mohawk Valley.  The Saints started off strong defending the long throw of Mohawk Valley’s Brandon Butts.  The Saints hard work would pay off 28 minutes in as Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Toynebee School) tackled a Mohawk Valley midfielder and the ball rolled to another Mohawk Valley player.  Ryan Geary (Ogdensburg/Ogdensburg Free Academy) tackle him and went in to beat the keeper to the near post.  The game would go to the break at 1-0 Saints.

The second half was a much different story.  Mohawk’s Justin Little took a ball over the top and went in on Saints Goalkeeper Zack Peck to finish and tie the game 1-1.  Minutes later a red card would be issued to a North Country player.  Mohawk would capitalize and Oraine Pringle would put MVCC in front with 30 minutes to play.  James Flaherty (London, Eng/St. Michael’s) chance in the box was turned away by MVCC Goalkeeper David Leigh. 

All hope of a comeback was put to rest when a second North Country player would be sent off with 22 minutes remaining.  Oraine Pringle would get his second goal of the match on a rebound off the cross bar.  The overmatched Saints battled but found themselves on the losing end 3-1. 

“It was a tale of two halves today,” said Coach Adam Parker.  “We kept everything simple in the first half and defended tough but the second half was almost a complete opposite.  Against good team, you can’t make that many mental errors. “ 

The Saints play at Herkimer tomorrow at 2PM.  They are now 5-2-1. 

September 25^th , 2008    Plattsburgh, NY

North Country      -3

Clinton CC           -0

Scoring Summary

Goal   Time      Team       Scorer              Assist                        Description____

1. 60:32     NCCC     Kiel Mullen         Ryan Geary               Shot from 25 yds out
2. 66:41     NCCC     Jake Losey        Liam Gilbert               Breakaway
3. 74:12     NCCC     Liam Gilbert                                     Shot from just outside 6

Shots

NCCC           -27

Clinton CC     -9

Saves

NCCC             -5

Clinton CC      -15

Corners

NCCC             -7

Clinton CC      -1

Plattsburgh, NY— The North Country Saints got their 5^th win of the season over rival Clinton CC with a 3-0 win on Thursday.  After a scoreless first, half Kiel Mullen (Bedworth, Eng/Warwickshire) gave the Saints a 1-0 lead when his shot from 25 yds out found the back of the net.  6 minutes later Jake Losey (Massena/Massena) was sprung free on a pass from Liam Gilbert (Southampton/Toynebee School) and slipped the pass behind the Clinton goalkeeper.  Gilbert would get his 5^th goal of the year several minutes later after winning a tackle in the Clinton end and finishing.  Zack Peck (Chateaugay/Chateaugay) made 4 saves for his 5^th shutout of the season. 

“It was a tough win.  The rivalry really had Clinton fired up and we struggled trying to settle the ball down.  If they had scored first things could have been different for us today,” said Coach Adam Parker. 

The Saints are now 5-1-1 and head to Mohawk Valley for a game this Saturday.  Mohawk Valley is 7-1 on the season.  The Saints will turn around and play Nationally Ranked Herkimer on Sunday at 2pm. 

Men's Soccer - News

September 21^st, 2008               Olean, NY

North Country            -10

Jamestown CC-Olean   -0

Scoring Summary

Goal       Time    Team             Scorer                   Assist                   Description________

1.         16:42    NCCC        Liam Gilbert             James Flaherty     1 V 1 with goalkeeper

2          17:06    NCCC        Chris Stephenson     Ryan Geary          1 V 1 with goalkeeper

3          23;30    NCCC        Liam Gilbert             Kevin Patanella            

4          23:48    NCCC        James Flaherty        Liam Gilbert        Finish inside 6 off cross

5          46:30    NCCC        Chris Stephenson     Liam Gilbert        Finish from just inside box

6          48:50    NCCC        Liam Gilbert             Ryan Geary                 

7          53:28    NCCC        Chris Stephenson     Ryan Geary    Throughball finish from 10 yds

8          66:41    NCCC        Chris LaShomb         Ephriam Fosu     Shot from just inside 18

9          84:12    NCCC        Clayton Buck           Chris Lashomb    Flick over keepers head

10        86:43    NCCC         Ephraim Fosu          Jake Losey         Header off corner kick

Shots

NCCC              -24      

JCC Olean        -5

Saves

NCCC   Peck               -3

JCC Olean Herliman      -15

Corners

NCCC              -6

JCC Olean        -6

Olean, NY—The North Country Saints equaled their previous seasons win total on Sunday with a 10-0 victory over JCC-Olean to move to 4-1-1.  The Saints were led with 3 goals from Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Toynebee School) and Chris Stephenson (Boroughbridge, Eng/Boroughbridge).  James Flaherty (London, Eng/St. Michael’s), Chris LaShomb (Massena/Massena), Ephriam Fosu (New York/Martin Luther King) and Clayon Buck (Hoosic Falls/Hoosic Falls) also scored for the Saints.  Ryan Geary (Ogdensburg/Ogdensburg Free Academy) had 3 assists.  Zack Peck (Chateaugay/Chateaugay) was in goal for his 3^rd consecutive shut out. 

The Saints are at rival Clinton CC on Thursday September 25^th at 4PM before heading to Mohawk Valley and Herkimer next weekend. 

September 20^th, 2008   Orchard Park, NY

North County -7

Erie CC         -0

Scoring Summary

Goal   Time     Team           Scorer                 Assist                Description________

1       20:22    NCCC      James Flaherty    Chris Lashomb   Finish inside penaly area off cross

2       40:49    NCCC      Chris Stephenson   James Allen      Diagonal Cross, Finish inside box

3       42:24    NCCC      James Flaherty                            Penalty Kick

4       42:37    NCCC      Liam Gilbert          Jake Losey                  

5       73:55    NCCC      Ryan Geary          Liam Gilbert       Shot from inside penalty area

6       75:57    NCCC      Jake Losey           Kevin Patanella  One time finish inside box

7       79:39    NCCC      Ryan Geary          Nic Hier             Shot in Upper Corner

Shots

NCCC   -22

ECC     -2

Saves

NCCC   Peck      -2

ECC     Schieber -13

Corners

NCCC   -5

ECC     -4

Orchard Park, NY—North Country’s Men’s Soccer team defeated the Erie Community College Kats on Saturday afternoon in a solid performance 7-0.  “It was a complete team performance today.  The starters were sharp and when the substitutes came on they continued to keep the level,” said coach Adam Parker.

James Flaherty (London, Eng/St. Michael’s) opened the scoring with his second goal of the year on a cross from Chris LaShomb (Massena/Massena).  The game stay tight as the Saints worked to get the second goal.  A goal by Chris Stephenson (Boroughbridge, Eng/Boroughbridge), James Flaherty’s penalty kick and Liam Gilbert’s (Southampton, Eng/Toynebee School) first goal in the final 5 minutes of the half would give North Country a 4-0 halftime lead. 

Midway through the second half midfield Ryan Geary ( Ogdensburg/Ogdensburg Free Academy) got his team leading 4^th goal and would later add his 5^th.  Jake Losey’s (Massena/Massena) finish off a Kevin Patanella (Caledonia/Caledonia-Mumford) set up would round out the scoring and give the Saints their third victory of the season.  Zack Peck (Chateaugay/Chateaugay) was in goal for his third shutout for the season. 

The Saints 3-1-1 are at JCC-Olean on Sunday.

September 13^th, 2008      Saranac Lake, NY

North Country  -3

Adirondack CC  -0

Scoring Summary

Goal   Time      Team       Scorer                      Assist                           Description____

1. 20:22     NCCC    Chris LaShomb           James Flaherty           Header from Cross
2. 67:35     NCCC    Chris Stephenson       Liam Gilbert                Shot from 6 yds out.
3. 74:48     NCCC    James Flaherty          Chris Stephenson        Volley of Cross

Shots

NCCC      -12

JCC         -7

Saves

NCCC    -6

JCC      -10

Corners

NCCC    -7

JCC      -5

Saranac Lake, NY--The North Country Saints Men's Soccer team jumped to 2-1-1 after a 3-0 defeat of Adirondack Community College on Saturday.  Freshman Chris LaShomb (Massena/Massena) in his first start scored his first collegiate goal to give the Saints a 1-0 lead.  He was assisted by James Flaherty (London, Eng/St. Michael's).  ACC kept the game close and Goalkeeper Zack Peck (Chateaugay/Chateaugay) made several key saves to keep the Saints in front.  The Saints would get an insurance goal after Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/The Toynebee School) fought to keep a play alive in the penalty area and played Chris Stephenson (Boroughbridge, Eng/Boroughbridge) whose great first touch set him up for the second goal.  The Saints would add a third when Jame Flaherty got on the receiving end of a cross from Stephenson to give the Saints a 3-0 win. 

"It wasn't the prettiest of performances.  ACC really fought hard and made it difficult to settle the ball and possess.  This was an important game for us to get the win if we are going to get to regionals," said Coach Adam Parker.

The Saints are on the road for 9 straight games now starting with a trip to Western New York next weekend at Erie CC and JCC-Olean. 

September 7^th, 2008       Saranac Lake, NY

North Country  -3

SUNY Delhi      -3

Scoring Summary

Goal   Time      Team         Scorer                    Assist                    Description_________

1. 10:43     NCCC     Kenny Rutkowski      Chris Stephenson
2. 11:53     NCCC     Chris Stephenson     Liam Gilbert          Ball over top;Flick past Keeper
3. 20:56     Delhi      Kevin Brodie            Jeff Albanesius            Misclear; Shot from 18
4. 26:00     NCCC     Ryan Geary                                             Misclear; Open Net
5. 59:53     Delhi      Nico Fernandez        Alvaro Velazquez         Corner Kick; Near Post
6. 72:33     Delhi      Anis Makaren                                           Rebound off Post

Shots

NCCC    -12

Delhi     -13

Saves

NCCC    -10

Delhi     -9

Corners

NCCC    -3

Delhi     -2

Saranac Lake, NY—The North Country Saints finished off their first week of the season with a 3-3 draw to SUNY Delhi.  The Saints jumped on Delhi early with goals from Kenny Rutkowski (Burlington, Vt/Essex) his fourth of the season and Chris Stephenson (Boroughbridge, England/Boroughbridge).   A misclear by a Saints defender to the middle of the field led to Delhi’s first goal by Kevin Brodie who hit a rocket into the upper corner.  North Country would capitalize on a Delhi mistake 6 minutes later when Ryan Geary (Ogdensburg)/Ogdensburg jumped on a misclearance and placed it into the open Delhi net.  The fatigue of 3 games in 5 days began to set in on the Saints but they managed to get to halftime ahead 3-1. 

The second half was all Delhi.  They moved the ball around the field with ease as the Saints tried to cling to their 2 goal lead.  The lead was cut in half 15 minutes into the second half when Delhi’s Nico Fernandez scored off a corner from Alvaro Velazquez.  The game was tied up 13 minutes later when Anis Makaren dribbled through two Saints defenders and his shot bounced off the post but he was able to collect the rebound and finish it.  The game would end in regulation 3-3. 

In overtime a second yellow card was issued to a Saints player just after the restart and they would have to play the extra most of the extra 20 minutes a man down.   The best chance of the overtime came with 25 seconds left when Saints midfielder Liam Gilbert (Southampton, Eng/Toynebee School) found himself in the box with one man to beat.  The Delhi defender was able to deflect his shot and the clock would run out with the game ending 3-3. 

“We found a lineup that I am really happy with.  We just need to learn from our mistakes and not repeat them and get a lot more fitness in.  We’ve been nursing a few injuries so hopefully we can heal up and be ready for just our one game next weekend, “ said Head Coach Adam Parker. 

The Saints (1-1-1) are off until next Saturday, September 13 at home against Adirondack. 

North Country -1

Hudson Valley -4

Scoring Summary

Goal       Time      Team     Scorer                    Assist                  Description________

1. 25:48     HVCC     Mike Ackerman          David Hilton          Shot from top of 18
2. 32:47     HVCC     Mike Ackerman          Steven Caruso      Headed over Def/1 V 1 w/GK
3. 38:30     NCCC     Kenny Rutkowski        Kiel Mullen
4. 43:52     HVCC     Eric Vanderbilt           Mike Ackerman      FK from corner redirected in
5. 51:54     HVCC     Dennis Forward          John LaForest

Shots

NCCC     -7

HVCC     -8

Saves

NCCC     -2

HVCC     -4

Corners

NCCC     -5

HVCC     -4

Saranac Lake, NY—Hudson Valley CC continued their unbeaten ways as they defeated the North Country Saints 4-1.  Hudson Valley fresh off their victory over traditional power Herkimer CCC got two goals midway through the first half from Sophomore All-Region player Mike Ackerman to jump out in front.   Kenny Rutkowski  (Burlington, Vt/Essex) snuck in behind the Viking defense on a pass from Kiel Mullen (Bedworth, Eng/Warwickshire)  for his 3^rd goal of the year to cut the deficit in half.   A foul in the corner just outside the box with two minutes to go in the half resulted in a free kick that was deflected in by Hudson Valley Defender Eric Vanderbilt. 

“Had we been just a goal down at halftime maybe we could have regrouped and the result would have been different.  But the late goal in the half seemed to break our backs.  We need to manage the game better from that standpoint,” said Coach Adam Parker.  “We made too many silly mistakes to beat a team as good as they were.”

The second half saw the Vikings add one goal by Midfielder Dennis Forward to seal defeat for the Saints.  They fall to 1-1 and host SUNY Delhi on Sunday at the Sparks Athletic Complex Field. 

September 3^rd, 2008       Saranac Lake, NY

North Country -6

Jefferson CC   -0

Scoring Summary

Goal       Time      Team     Scorer                   Assist                          Description________

1. 12:44     NCCC     Ryan Geary             Jake Losey                Shot from inside 6
2. 21:53     NCCC     Kenny Rutkowski      Kiel Mullen                 Breakaway /Goalkeeper
3. 31:10     NCCC     Kenny Rutkowski      Liam Gilbert
4. 59:30     NCCC     Ryan Geary             James Flaherty       Keeper caught out, Open Net
5. 82:34     NCCC     Ephriam Fosu           Jake Losey
6. 85:30     NCCC     Ephriam Fosu           Kevin Patanella

Shots

NCCC -25

JCC   -2

Saves

NCCC -2

JCC   -19

Corners

NCCC   -4

JCC     -1

Saranac Lake, NY—The North Country Saints Men’s Soccer Team kicked off its 2008 season with a 6-0 win against Jefferson CC.  Early pressure from the Saints led to a goal by midfielder Ryan Geary (Ogdensburg/Ogdensburg) and forward Kenny Rutkowski (Burlington, VT/Essex) added a pair to give the Saints a 3-0 lead at halftime.  It was Geary who would start the Saints again in the second half with a goal assisted from midfielder James Flaherty (London, Eng/St. Michael’s). 

Ephriam Fosu (New York/Martin Luther King) would come off the bench to add 2 late goals for the Saints assisted by Jake Losey (Massena/Massena) and Kevin Patanella (Caledonia/Caledonia-Mumford).  All goals were scored by freshmen playing in their first collegiate contests.   Zack Peck (Chateuagay/Chateaugay) made two saves for his first shutout. 

“It was good to score first.  You never know what to expect in the first game of the season.  We undoubtedly can be much sharper but we’re just happy to get the win.  Things will be a lot more difficult this weekend,” said Coach Adam Parker. 

The Saints (1-0) are home to Hudson Valley and SUNY Delhi on September 6^th and 7^th.  Jefferson (0-1) faces Adirondack in its next match. 

North Country’s Season Ends in Overtime

North Country CC fell in their final match of the 2007 season 2-1 in 2OT to Clinton CC.  North Country with just 11 eligible players changed their formation to a 3-4-3 for the first time all season. 

Jake Losey (Massena/Massena) scored on counterattack off a Clinton corner kick.  Losey’s speed was too much for the Clinton defense as he pushed the ball behind the defense at midfield and finished a breakaway for his 3^rd goal in the last 3 games.  He was assisted by Matt Levac (Massena/Massena).  The Saints would lead 1-0 at halftime. 

Aaron Goldfarb evened the game with 22 minutes remaining off a cross from Josh Mowery.  Clinton goalkeeper Garrett Hume made several key stops including another breakaway by Losey to keep Clinton level. 

In the 2^nd overtime Ryan Hartigan scored the golden goal to give Clinton the victory and end the Saints season.  The Saints finish 4-10 overall and 4-8 in the region. 

                                                1^st        2^nd       1^st OT  2^nd OT Final

North Country CC                         1          0          0          0          -1

Clinton CC                                 0          1          0          1          -2

Scoring

Away

North Country CC                        Goals-Goldfarb (67), Hartigan (102)

                                                Saves-5

                                                Shots-10

Home

North Country                            Goals-Losey (21)

                                                Assists-Levac

                                                Saves-5

                                                Shots-10

North Country’s Post Season Hopes Ended by Erie

Erie CC eliminated North Country CC from Post Season contention on Sunday with a 4-3 victory.  Phil Barrett opened the scoring for Erie when Goalkeeper Paul Chrisman miscleared a back pass.  Barrett slid the deflection into the open net to give Erie the 1-0 lead.  The Saints spoiled several chances and were down 1-0 at halftime. 

It was just two minutes after halftime that Erie was awarded a penalty kick.  Nick Shand converted to give the Cats a 2-0 lead.  North Country finally found the back of the net when Jake Losey (Massena/Massena) scored in the 51^st minute from 35 yards out putting the ball over Erie goalkeeper Scott Augustine. The goal was Losey’s 4^th of the season. 

The Saints leveled the game with 26 minutes remaining.  James Flaherty (London, Eng/St. Michael’s) played Dean Atkins (Wycombe, Eng/John Hampden) who dribbled the goalkeeper and finished into the open net. 

Erie retook the lead in the 75^th minute on Josh West’s goal assisted by Phil Burrett.  Just 3 minutes later Defender Craig Peacock converted a corner to level the score once gain.  But it was not the Saints day several miscues would lead to Erie’s 4^th and game winning goal by Josh West. 

The Saints outshot Erie 41-13.  Goalkeeper Scott Augustine had 24 saves.  Paul Chrisman (Burlington/Burlington) had 3 saves.  “I’m disappointed in that e did everything we could to give away this game today and it cost us our season,” said Coach Adam Parker.  “Their team made the timely plays that our guys couldn’t.  Their goalkeeper was outstanding and once again we spent the day playing from behind.” 

The Saints then travel to Clinton for their final regular season match on Tuesday, October 16^th.

                                                1^st        2^nd       Final

Erie CC                                            1          3          -4

North Country CC                       0          3          -3

Scoring

Away

Erie CC                                          Goals-Burrett (12), Shard (47), West (75), (83)

                                                Saves-24

                                                Shots-13

Home

North Country                            Goals-Losey (51), Atkins (64), Peacock (78)

                                                Assists-Flaherty 2

                                                Saves-3

North Country Downed by Broome CC

North Country was upended by Broome CC the 6^th ranked team in Region III on Saturday October 13^th 2-1.  Broome scored just 2 minutes into the second half when Salar Ahmad found the back of the net off of a pass from Stefan Miller. 

Jake Losey (Massena/Massena) tied the game with 18 minutes remaining when the ball slipped past Broome keeper Colin Harder and Losey finished for his 3^rd goal of the season.  Just 3 minutes later Broome substitute Antonio Butler put his team in front for good from an assist by Phil Hewitt.   

North Country outshot Broome 20-13.  “It was probably the best soccer we have played all year,” said Coach Adam Parker.  “It’s disappointing not to get a result when we have played so well but Broome a high level also.” 

The loss puts NCCC at 4-8 overall and 4-6 in the region.  North Country finishes its home schedule tomorrow against Erie CC.  The Saints then travel to Clinton for their final regular season match on Tuesday, October 16^th.  North Country must win both games to make the regional tournament. 

                                                1^st        2^nd       Final

Broome CC                                    0          2          -2

North Country CC                      0          1          -1

Scoring

Away

Broome CC                                   Goals-Ahmad (47), Butler (21)

                                                Saves-11

                                                Shots-13

Home

North Country                            Goals-Losey (63)

                                                Assists-Dishaw

                                                Saves-5

                                                Shots-20

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