14th November 2009
Hopkins Unable to Beat Loyola at Home
Blue Jays only tie in a game filled with controversy
By Chris de LaiglesiaIn the final preparations leading to Nationals, the boys in blue were set to play local rivals Loyola in a rematch, as the Greyhounds had beaten the Blue Jays at home. It was a chance for Hopkins to play a physical opposition, as in the previous year at Nationals, the teams tended to be twice the size of Hopkins.
Kickoff was at 7.30pm on the JHU practice field, and prior to the encounter, the team had their annual squad photo. Daniel Mandel was the official, and The weather, chilly, was better then that earlier in the weekend, as the rain had finally stopped and no wind was present.
The Greyhounds were feisty from the start, with tough challenges, always contesting for the ball, and pressurizing the home team to an extent where Hopkins were not able to play their soccer. This would lead to an early goal scored by Henry into his own net, as he attempted to clear a ball out as a Maryland striker pressed from the side. Unfortunately, Henry hit the ball over Mavrothalassitis, as he came out to help out the defender. This wake up call did help the Blue Jays move on to play the soccer that they are known for.
Hopkins rapidly dominated possession, passing the ball around the physical Loyola side, who continued to hack the boys in blue. Eventually, in the middle of the first half, Hopkins were able to get their first goal. De Laiglesia, played through by Tait, volleyed a left-footed ball across the goal into the bottom-right part of the net. The game was still very much under Hopkins control, but were unable to capitalize before the break. However, just before the half, Johnson made a rough tackle on the edge of the area. The Loyola player who was fouled proceeded to spit on Johnson, as Mandel walked over to award the freekick. This led to the inevitable dismissal of the player, much to the displeasure of the team's coach and players. As the Greyhound players started to argue at the decision, Mandel whistled half-time.
The second half started off dangerously physical, as the Loyola players were excessively filthy, coming in with almost criminal-like tackles all over the field. It did eventually settle down, but with a man down, Hopkins should have really punished this side. Unfortunately, with another mishap in the area moments later, Loyola were able to get a lead. Like the previous goal, Hopkins replied almost instantly, as Dunlap put in a beautiful ball into the area, with Henry making a great run, and finishing it into the net. Although they continued to threaten throughout, Hopkins were unable to break the deadlock and the game ended 2-2.
Even though the scoreline was not flattering, Hopkins did play well against this physical side, and the team got the experience they wanted prior to the Nationals tournament. With the main event rapidly approaching, the team was rearing to go.
