Box Score

Schenectady, NY (Sept. 11, 2005) – Sophomore Gary Sroka (Liverpool, NY/Liverpool) scored with 24 seconds left in the first overtime to help Rensselaer edge New Paltz on the final day of the Union Classic men’s soccer tournament. The teams battled back and forth with very few scoring opportunities until Sroka found the net to give the Red Hawks their fourth win of the season.

It was New Paltz who had the first scoring opportunity in the 24th minute but the ball literally did not bounce their way. Freshman Chris Hotzak (St. James, NY/Smithtown) won a challenge with Rensselear goalkeeper John Thibdeau (Altamont, NY/Bethlehem) inside the penalty area. The ball was on its way toward the goal following the collision but had too much spin on it and headed wide of the post as it hit the ground. Thibdeau finished with five saves for the shutout.

Rensselear came up empty in the 48th minute when Craig DiDomenico (Commack, NY/Commack) sent a direct free kick from 25 yards out just over the crossbar.

Play continued to go back and forth for the rest of the match. Rensselaer finished with a slight 14-13 advantage in shots. It was their last shot that proved to be the difference though. Sroka collected a loose ball in front of a New Paltz defender at the top of the penalty box. He took a quick dribble and sent a low shot under Hawks goalie Masanori Hotta, who finished with six saves.