The Virginia Tech Men’s soccer team advanced to the sweet sixteen of the NCAA Tournament after upsetting the No. 10 Charlotte 49ers. This 3-2 final marked the 12th win of the season for the Hokies. The Hokies broke the 49ers record of being unbeaten at home.
Charlotte was first on the board as freshman Daniel Bruce scored. Charlotte was able to hold this lead throughout the first half. Bruce later assisted Brandt Bronico in equalizing the score at 2-2 in the second half. Coach Mike Brizendine commented on Charlotte equalizing in the second half, “We were under pressure when they got that equalizer but we were able to regroup because we knew we can win games.”
In the second half, Virginia Tech saw outstanding performances from Ben Lundgaard, Gino Rossi, Marcelo Acuna, Brendan Moyers and Nico Quashie. Marcelo Acuna scored his tenth goal of the season drawing the score 1-1. Shortly after, Acuna reached the net again from an assist by Brendan Moyers.
Freshman, Nico Quashie made the game-winning goal with three minutes left in the second half giving the Hokies a 3-2 victory.
Coach Brizendine comments on the performance of his Hokies, “I am very happy for this team for fighting back against a very good Charlotte team and getting a win. We knew that we did not play all that well in the first half. Anytime we go away from what we are good at, we don’t do very well. At halftime, I reminded the guys what we have done well this season. They got the energy they needed and we got those two goals.”
The Hokies have a short break before taking the road against No. 7 Indiana. The Sweet Sixteen contest for the NCAA Tournament will be Sunday set at 1p.m.
“Now we have a couple of days to rest and recover to get ready for Indiana,” said Coach Mike Brizendine as the Hokies prepare for this Sunday.
For more updates about the Virginia Tech Men’s Soccer team as they travel to the Sweet Sixteen, follow them on twitter @VT_MSoccer
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