Sea Gulls stifled in double overtime tie to begin season
SALISBURY, Md.- The Salisbury University men’s soccer team needed an extra 20 minutes in its 2007 season opener on Saturday afternoon at the SU Soccer Complex but the added time didn’t make a difference. The Sea Gulls walked away with a 0-0 double overtime against non-conference opponent Elmhurst College before 350 fans at the 8th Annual Elmer Lord Memorial Soccer Classic.

The Sea Gulls (0-0-1) could not capitalize on any opportunities as they attempted 13 shots on goal including three shots in each of the two 10 minute overtime periods. SU midfielder Scott Sparrow ripped a shot from the top of the box with 3:20 left in the first overtime period that ricocheted off the crossbar that would have sealed the victory for the Gulls.

Freshmen Mike Napolitano and Chris Finney came off the bench for the maroon and gold and combined for seven shots (six on goal).

Senior goalie Matt Blue recorded the shutout for the Sea Gulls between the pipes as he stopped six Blue Jay shots while Elmhurst’s Britt Blackwell saved a game-high 13 shots. The SU defense led by senior captain, Dave Kroening, allowed only one Elmhurst shot in the overtime periods.

Elmhurst (0-0-1) took nine corner kicks to Salisbury’s seven while the Gulls doubled up the Blue Jays on shots, 15-8.

In the second game of the afternoon St. Mary’s (Md.) College defeated Shenandoah University (0-1) by a score of 3-0. The Seahawks (1-0) were led by senior forward Cyrus Albertson who scored two goals on three shots. SMC goalie Rick Besore recorded the shutout victory for the Hawks.

The Elmer Lord Memorial Soccer Classic continues tomorrow (Sunday) as St. Mary’s (Md.) meets Elmhurst in the first game at 1 p.m. followed by the Salisbury-Shenandoah game that is slated to start at 3 p.m.