Nov. 15, 2006
TOWSON, Md. -- The Fairfield University men's soccer team saw its NCAA run end on the pitch at Towson University, falling to the host and 20th ranked Tigers, 2-0. The Stags finish the year with a 15-6-1 record, after having earned the program's first-ever NCAA Tournament win.
"It has been a thoroughly enjoyable season for our group," said head coach Carl Rees. "To represent fellows like this, [Mike Troy and Mike Cunliffe] has been a privilege. It is time to reflect on our season as a whole, which has been a fantastic experience as a whole."
The Stags had several opportunities to get on the board, however were denied at every turn. The best chance came in the 61st minute when the Stags were awarded a penalty shot after a foul in front of the Towson net. Alex Cunliffe's shot was stopped by Tiger keeper Billy Chiles, and the deflection came right back to him. His second shot was also blocked and a third chance from Mike Troy went high.
In the first half, with the game still scoreless, Sam Bailey broke past a defender, before being tackled from behind and losing the ball A minute earlier Steve Desmond had a header flick away from the net as the keeper came out to play the ball.
Towson broke through at 39:08 when Kevin Ruck had a corner kick from Sean Cunningham drop towards his feet. Ruck was credited with the goal in the 39th minute.
The Tigers scored an insurance goal at 53:00. The first shot was stopped by Francini, but he was unable to corral the rebound, and Nino Mangione put the ball home to the opposite corner.
Francini played well for the Stags, stopping seven shots, including six in the second half, and several at point blank range, to keep his squad in the game.
