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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