Centenary Athletics Holds Annual Banquet
- Senior Chris Hill
HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. (May 5, 2009) – Centenary athletics held its annual banquet Tuesday night, handing out awards for the 2008-09 season. Coach of the Year honors went to first-year men’s basketball coach Enrico Mastroianni, Rookie of the Year went to Caitlin Veverka (Bayonne, N.J./Holy Family Academy) and Owen Vernon (Great Meadows, N.J./Hackettstown), the Scholar Athlete winners were Bianca Santulli (Bridgewater, N.J./Bridgewater) and Adam Achillies (Lanoka Harbor, N.J./Lacey Twp.) and the Cardy Gemma Award went to Jolyn Veres (Denville, N.J./Morris Knolls) and Chris Hill (Flanders, N.J./Gil St. Bernard's).
The Cardy Gemma Award is given to the outstanding senior male and female athletes. Hill was a three-year member of the men’s soccer team and the Cyclones’ all-time leading goal scorer and the program’s all-time leader in career points. He finished his career with 36 goals, six assists and 78 points. He is a two-time First Team All-Conference honoree, a two-time NSCAA Third Team All-Metro Region and was named to DIII Kicks Third Team All-Metro Region as a sophomore. He also performed well in the classroom, twice earning Second Team All-East Region Scholar honors. This marks his second school award as he was named 2007 Centenary Male Scholar-Athlete of the Year.
Centenary 2008-09 Athletic Awards
Five Men's Soccer Players Named as Scholars
HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. (January 8, 2009) - Five men’s soccer players were recognized by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA)/Adidas for posting a GPA over 3.5. Named to the Scholar All-East Region’s Second Team was Chris Hill (Flanders, N.J./Gil St. Bernard) who finished with a GPA of 3.77. Also receiving Honorable Mentions were Andrew Eitel (Byram, N.J./Morris Catholic) 3.75, Brian Esposito (Washington, N.J./Warren Hills) 3.78, Josh Spivack (Mount Olive, N.J./Mount Olive) 3.57, and Damien Gallegos (Rutherford, N.J./Queen of Peace) 3.75.
Overtime Goal Knocks Men's Soccer Out of ECAC's
FARMINGDALE, N.Y. (November 12, 2008) - The Centenary men's soccer team dropped a heartbreaker at Farmingdale State, losing 3-2 in overtime in the quarterfinals of the ECAC Tournament.
The Cyclones got off to a very fast start, as Jimmy Corey (Jackson, N.J./Jackson Memorial) scored a goal in the game’s opening minute. Corey’s goal came off an assist from Chris Guadagno (West Milford, N.J./West Milford) and it gave Centenary the very early 1-0 lead.
Farmingdale, unfazed by the early deficit, was able to collect themselves and tie the game up on a goal by Ryan Paul. With the game tied at one, it was the Rams who were now on the attack and it wouldn’t be long after their first goal that they would find the net again. Ryan Lang was found on a cross by Paul and was able to tuck the ball into the back of the net, before Damien DiBuono (Succasunna, N.J./Morris Catholic) the Cyclones keeper was able to recover across the goal line. Farmingdale now had a 2-1 lead which they took into halftime.
Into the second half both teams traded scoring chances, but it wasn’t until a long throw in chance that the Cyclones would again find the net. Ryan Bilello (West Hempstead, N.Y./West Hempstead) notched his 7th assist of the season, when he tossed his throw into the box, and Guadagno was able to flick it past the Ram keeper, tying the score at two. The remaining 30 minutes of regulation were played scoreless and the game went into golden goal overtime.
In overtime the Cyclones, playing a man down after a red card, fell victim to a Rams combination which left Ryan Stanridge one on one with DiBuono. Stanridge was able to finish the play, giving Farmingdale the 3-2 victory. Fourth-seeded Farmingdale will now travel to No. 1 William Paterson on Saturday for the semi-finals of the ECAC Metro Championship.
For the Cyclones, this loss ends their season. The Cyclones finished the year with an overall record of 10-10-1. They placed five of their players on the CSAC All-Conference Teams. Boxscore
One Goal Enough to Hold Off Cyclones in CSAC Playoffs
SCRANTON, Pa. (November 4, 2008) - In a physical and emotional battle, it was Marywood’s Anthony Roma’s free kick in the games 62nd minute which was the difference, as Marywood came away with the victory 1-0. Marywood now advances on in the playoffs to take on top seeded Cabrini College. Meanwhile although Centenary’s CSAC season has ended, the Cyclones are looking forward to berths in other post season tournaments.
In the first half, Centenary had some early adversity to overcome when starter Sean Chirico (Oak Ridge, N.J./Morris Catholic) was taken off the field with an ankle injury, however, with some strong play from Centenary’s reserves, they didn’t miss a beat. Both teams clearly set the tone of the game in the first half, and that tone was defense. Marywood outshot the Cyclones 7-2 but neither team could find the net, as the teams took a 0-0 score into halftime.
For the second half again Centenary had some more injuries, and turned to the reserves again, this time though Marywood would capitalize. The game changed when Marywood sent a long ball over the top in which in a foot race Marywood’s Richard Fifi and Centenary’s Pat Trivino (Lyndhurst, N.J./St. Mary’s) became entangled resulting in a red card for Trivino, and a free kick for Marywood. It was on this free kick that Roma was able to bend into the side netting, and put Marywood on top 1-0. For the game’s final 25 minutes, Centenary had to get a goal back, and do so being a man down after the red card. And although they had a great scoring chance when Matt Winkler’s (Great Meadows, N.J./Hackettstown) lefty shot sailed just wide of the net Marywood’s defense led by All-Conference selections Mikhail Attong and goalie Jared El-Gayeh were too solid, and Marywood held onto the game 1-0.
For Centenary, Damien DiBuono (Succasunna, N.J./Morris Catholic) was big in the net all game, making five saves. Boxscore
Five Centenary Men Named All-Conference
HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. (November 4, 2008) - On Monday the Colonial States Athletic Conference (CSAC) released its 2008 men’s soccer All-Conference Awards. Five Centenary men were selected to the team. Landing on the First Team All-Conference were senior forward Chris Hill (Flanders, N.J./Gil St. Bernard) and junior midfielder Chris Guadagno (West Milford, N.J./West Milford).
Ryan Bilello (West Hempstead, N.Y./West Hempstead), a senior defender, was named to the Second Team All-Conference. Rounding out the selections were freshman forward Andrew Pinnella (Brielle, N.J./Manasquan) and freshman midfielder Matt Winkler (Great Meadows, N.J./Hackettstown), who were both named to the Conference Honorable Mention Team. Guadagno is a repeat selection to the CSAC All-Conference Team.
Bilello was also named as Centenary’s recipient of the CSAC Sportsmanship Award for his outstanding leadership with men’s soccer program.
For complete listing of All-Conference selections, click here.
Corey Named CSAC Player of the Week
HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. (November 3, 2008) - Jimmy Corey (Jackson, N.J./Jackson Memorial) was named the CSAC Player of the Week this week. Corey had a total of six points on the week, including two goals, and two assists in a win over Baptist Bible College. This rounded out a 1-1 confence week for the Cyclones. Corey now has five goals and two assists, for 12 points on the season.
Men's Soccer Stumble In Regular Season Finale
DREXEL HILL, Pa. (November 1, 2008) - In the men’s soccer season finale against Neumann College, it was Neumann who were the victors taking the game 5-0. This loss dropped Centenary to 10-8-1 on the season while Neumann improved to 8-9-2.
The Knights scored their first goal when Chuck Rudolph scored on a pass from Vernon Collins eight minutes into the game. Then Jesse Urquhart scored two goals off free kicks to give Neumann the lead, 3-0. Joe Larkins closed out the half with a goal with less than five minutes remaining in the half. Neumann’s fifth and final goal was scored by Collins.
For the Cyclones, Damien DiBuono (Succasunna, N.J./Morris Catholic) and Jason Rogers (Washington, N.J./North Warren) combined for three saves.
Both teams made the CSAC Tournament. Neumann will be third seed in the tournament and will play Immaculata, while Centenary is the fifth seed and will travel to Marywood. Boxscore
Cyclones On Wrong End of High Scoring Game
(10/25/08) In what was a rainy and muddy Saturday afternoon, it was Immaculata’s five second half goals that gave them the victory over Centenary in men’s soccer, 5-2. This win improves the Mighty Macs to 8-7-2 on the year, while lowering Centenary’s record to 9-7-1 on for the season.
The game started off good for the Cyclones early, when Ryan Bilello (West Hempstead, NY/West Hempstead) found a loose ball in the box to knock home his second goal of the season, and give Centenary it’s only lead at 1-0.
The Cyclones carried that lead into the second half, but just ten seconds into the start of the second half, Kieran Keelan of the Cyclones was able to get a breakaway and beat Damien DiBuono (Succasunna, NJ/Morris Catholic) and tie the game at one goal apiece. The game wouldn’t stay that way for long, just four minutes later, Immaculata’s Chris Conlon was able to make good on a turnover, and dribbled in to score his first goal of the season and the Mac’s took the lead 2-1. The scoring didn’t stop there for Immaculata, when a ball got played out wide and Mitchell Torh swung in a cross in which Keelan was able to finish, and the Mac’s then lead 3-1. Eleven minutes later, Chris Guadagno (West Milford, NJ/West Milford) found himself just outside the goal box with the ball where he was able to dribble around the keeper, and tucked the ball into the side netting bringing the Cyclones to within one goal, 3-2. Unfortunately that was as close as Centenary would get, when just two minutes later, off a rebound from a corner Alan Lorentz of the Mac’s hit a one time shot that rattled the cage and made the score 4-2. The final goal of the game was again scored by Keelan, giving him the hat trick, off a long punt which turned into a breakaway in which he finished, making the final score 5-2. DiBuono of the Cyclones made nine total saves on the day. Boxscore
Cyclones Score Eight in Win Over Baptist Bible
- Jimmy Corey
(10/30/08) Jimmy Corey (Jackson, NJ/Jackson Memorial) had two goals and two assists for six total points in Centenary’s 8-0 win over Baptist Bible. The win now puts Centenary at 4-3 in the conference. Baptist Bible with the loss, drops their record to 2-17.
The scoring started for Centenary with Andrew Pinnella (Brielle, NJ/Manasquan) connecting on a long cross from Ryan Bilello (West Hempstead, NY/West Hempstead). Following that goal was Corey who got his first of the day when Matt Winkler (Great Meadows, NJ/Hackettstown) served a lefty a cross on the ground that Corey knocked in. The Cyclones third goal came when Chris Hill (Flanders, NJ/Gil St. Bernard) hit a free kick in from about 20 yards out that gave the Cyclones the 3-0 advantage. The first half scoring was finished off when Hill scored again on a lay off pass from Chris Guadagno (West Milford, NJ/West Milford).
The second half was much of the same for the Cyclones. Damien Gallegos (Rutherford, NJ/Queen of Peace) opened the second period scoring when he was able to head in a corner kick from Corey pushing the Cyclones lead to 5-0. Brian Esposito (Washington, NJ/Warren Hills) got the sixth goal of the game on Corey’s second assist. Corey then found the net for his second goal of the game on an assist from Hill. To finish out the scoring, Andrew Eitel (Byram, NJ/Morris Catholic) got his first career goal when he found the back of the net on a loose ball in the box.
In the net for the Cyclones, Damien DiBuono (Succasunna, NJ/Morris Catholic), Jason Rogers (Washington, NJ/Warren Hills) and Peter Florucci (Barre, VT/Spaulding High) combined for the team’s sixth shut out of the year. Boxscore
Ramapo's First Half Goal Enough To Hold Cyclones Off
- Jason Rogers
(10/22/08) Justin Stone’s goal in the first half was enough to give Ramapo the 1-0 win over Centenary on a crisp fall afternoon. This win improves Ramapo to 7-8-2, while dropping Centenary to 9-6-1.
In the opening half of action both teams were struggling to put together offensive chances. Ramapo turned to their bench and some fresh bodies to find their answer. James Gibson got a ball played out wide to him and he was able to serve it across finding the foot of Stone where he was able to beat the keeper giving the lead to the Roadrunners.
In the second half it was the Cyclones who were trying hard to get the equalizer but Ramapo’s offense kept Centenary honest in the back. Both teams in the half had very good looks at the net, but neither team could find the back of it. Ramapo’s defense stayed solid and Centenary was not able to get the tying goal, leaving the game at 1-0.
Jason Rogers (Washington, NJ/Warren Hills) played a strong game in net for the Cyclones making five saves, several of them at point blank range, while Ian Tighe was able to stop all of Centenary’s shots on goal giving him a shutout his sixth of the season. Boxscore
Chirico's Goal In Overtime Lifts Cyclones Past Griffins
- Sean Chirico
(10/20/08) The men’s soccer team went on the road to take on the Gwynedd-Mercy Griffins in an important game in CSAC play. It took 106 minutes of soccer to get a result when Sean Chirico (Oak Ridge, NJ/Morris Catholic) picked the perfect time to get his first goal, scoring it in overtime to lift the Cyclones past the Griffins 2-1.
After a scoreless first half, it was the Griffins who got on the board first when Matthew Meier scored on a breakaway to take the lead over Centenary, 1-0 early in the second half. Soon after, however, the Cyclones leading scorer Chris Hill (Flanders, NJ/Gil St. Bernard) converted a penalty kick and tied the game at 1-1.
The game remained tied at the end of regulation, and through the first overtime period, until Chirico ripped a shot from 25 yards out, which deflected off a Gwynedd-Mercy defender and found its way into the back of the net, giving the Cyclones the 2-1 victory.
This win now improves the Cyclones to 9-5-1 overall and 3-2 in the CSAC and they now sit in third place in the conference. For Gwynedd-Mercy the loss drops their overall record to 3-11-1 while being 2-2 in the CSAC.
Boxscore
Marywood Gets Goal In Each Half To Top Cyclones
(10/14/08) In a battle of two teams tied for second place in the CSAC. It was Marywood who got the best of Centenary with a final score of 2-0.
In the first half it was Centenary who was putting the pressure to Marywood’s defense early, and nearly got on the board first when Chris Guadagno (West Milford, NJ/West Milford) flicked on a long throw, but Marywood keeper Jared El Gayeh was able to make the one handed diving save to keep the score tied at zero. Minutes later however the Pacers got the break, when a foul was called inside the box resulting in a penalty kick. Anthony Roma of Marywood took and scored the kick and gave Marywood the 1-0 lead they took into half.
The second half was played mostly even with both teams getting their fair share of chances on net. Marywood who had gotten close several times prior on the long throw, were finally able to convert one when Brett Megee was able to flick a header on net off the long throw from Sean O’Day and this gave Marywood a commanding 2-0 lead.
The Cyclones despite putting heavy pressure on Marywood, sending multiple players forward were unable to find any cracks in the Pacer defense, and Marywood was able to hold on to their lead, and took the game 2-0.
For the Pacers El Gayeh was big in the net all day, while Cyclones keeper Damien DiBuono (Succasunna, NJ/Morris Catholic) made several key saves, totaling four on the afternoon.
This loss drops Centenary’s overall record to 8-5-1, 2-2 in the CSAC, while the win improves Marywood to 9-5 and 3-2. Boxscore
Winkler Named to CSAC Honor Roll
- Matt Winkler
(10/13/08) Matt Winkler (Great Meadows, NJ/Hackettstown) was named to the CSAC Honor Roll for the week ending on 10/12. Winkler had the game winning goal against Keystone College and the game winning assist against Philadelphia Biblical. The Cyclones were 2-0 in the week, and are now 2-1 in the conference for the season.
Centenary Beats Philadelphia Biblical Scoring Three Unanswered
- Chris Hill
(10/11/08) After falling behind early 1-0, the Cyclones scored three unanswered goals to get their second CSAC win over Philadelphia Biblical, 3-1. This win improves Centenary’s record on the season to 8-4-1, while being 2-1 in conference play. For Philadelphia Biblical, it makes them 5-7-1 overall, while dropping to 2-2 in the CSAC.
It was a mostly even first half, until PBU’s Jon Waszaj was able to hit a one time volley, off a deflection at the top of the box, that beat Centenary’s keeper Jason Rogers (Washington, NJ/Warren Hills) and gave the Eagles a 1-0 lead. Centenary however was able to respond, when Ryan Bilello (West Hempstead, NY/West Hempstead) got his team leading 5th assist, on a backdoor through ball which left Andrew Pinnella (Brielle, NJ/Manasquan) one on one with the keeper, and he was able to beat him, tying the score at one goal apiece.
Starting the second half with the game locked in a 1-1 tie, the next goal would prove to be crucial. Centenary was able to get that goal, when Matt Winkler (Great Meadows, NJ/Hackettstown) won the end line, and laid a ball across for Chris Hill (Flanders, NJ/Gil St. Bernard's) to hammer home, giving the Cyclones a lead, 2-1. Jimmy Corey (Jackson, NJ/Jackson Memorial) put the game out of reach for Philadelphia Biblical when he scored a goal beating the keeper near post, after a great individual effort. This goal ended the scoring, and left the score at 3-1.
In a game which saw some good individual goals, the keeper play was stellar as well. Philadelphia Biblical’s Andy Ecker kept his team close all day, making 8 saves, while Rogers for the Cyclones took away some certain goals, and finished the day with 5 saves.
The Cyclones are in action again on Tuesday in a conference match against Marywood. The game is at home, and set for 3:30pm. Boxscore
Centenary Takes Keystone 3-0 In CSAC Play
- Matt Winkler
(10/9/08) Matt Winkler (Great Meadows, NJ/Hackettstown) scored his third goal of the year in the 21st minute, and this proved to be enough, as Centenary out battled Keystone College to get a 3-0 win, their first conference one of the year. This victory now puts the Cyclones at 1-1 in conference play and 7-4-1 overall. The loss drops Keystone to 0-1 and 1-7-1.
In what proved to be a physical game, it was Winkler who got the Cyclones on the board early when a corner kick played by Andrew Pinnella (Brielle, NJ/Manasquan) landed out near him at the top of the 18, and Winkler hammered it home. The assist was Pinnella’s third in two games. The Cyclones kept Keystone on their heels when Chris Guadagno (West Milford, NJ/West Milford) was able to notch his 6th goal of the season, giving Centenary a 2-0 lead.
In the second half it was Centenary who again was able to find the net first. Chris Hill (Flanders, NJ/Gil St. Bernard) scored his team leading 8th goal, on an unassisted shot in the 62nd minute, making the score 3-0. Hill’s goal now puts him in a tie for the CSAC lead. The game was then turned over to the Cyclone defense and goalies, and they did the job, limiting Keystone to only three second half shots.
Damien Di Buono (Succasunna, NJ/Roxbury) and Jason Rogers (Washington, NJ/Warren Hills) each playing a half combined for a shut-out. This shut-out was the Cyclones fifth of the season. For the Giants, goalie Ryan Wagner made four saves.
Centenary will be back in action on homecoming weekend as they take on Philadelphia Biblical University. This game is set to kickoff on Saturday, at 1:00pm. Boxscore
Cabrini Beats Centenary 5-2 In Conference Game
- Andrew Pinnella
(10/6/08) The men’s soccer team went on the road to Cabrini for their first conference game of the season, and despite being tied 1-1 early on, came out on the wrong side of 5-2 score. This loss drops the Cyclones to 6-4-1 on the season, and 0-1 in the CSAC.
This game saw three goals scored in the first ten minutes of action. Cabrini struck first when Mike McDevitt connected on a pass at the top of the box from Evan Hanauer. The Cyclones didn’t trail for long however, until their forwards found each other for a goal. It was Andrew Pinnella (Brielle, NJ/Manasquan) who found Chris Hill (Flanders, NJ/Gil St. Bernard) for his 7th goal of the season, and we were all tied at one. Cabrini though, came right back, just 42 seconds later, and McDevitt scored his second goal off a corner kick served from Hanauer. The Cavaliers added to their lead when Brian Moran beat the keeper off an assist from Patrick Tobey in the 17th minute, this goal eventually was the game winner.
The second half had its share of goals as well, and once again it was Cabrini to net the first one. Andrew Jacobs scored from about 18 yards away, it was Moran who assisted and Cabrini now led 4-1. The Cyclones wouldn’t go down easy though, as Chris Guadagno (West Milford, NJ/West Milford) scored on a corner, whipped in by Pinnella. But again it was the Cavaliers who answered quickly, when Hanauer followed in a rebound for their 5th and final goal.
For the game, Cabrini’s Hanauer and McDevitt both finished with four points apiece. The Cyclones, it was their three leading scorers leading them in this game. Hill picked up his 14th point, Guadagno notched goal five and point ten, and Pinnella’s two assists now brought his point total up to nine.
The Cyclones will get a chance to even their conference record when they travel to Keystone College take on the Giants at 3 pm.
Boxscore
Eastern Scores Seven to Defeat Centenary
- Jason Rogers
(10/1/08) Yesterday, men’s soccer suffered their worst loss of the season so far, as Eastern took them 7-0. This loss now drops the Cyclones to 6-3-1 on the season.
Eastern was able to get on the board midway through the first half, when the team’s leading scorer Terry Fry scored off a long drop kick from goalie, Michael Dorsch and gave the Eagles a 1-0 lead, a lead they would not relinquish. The half closed out with Eastern outshooting the Cyclones 10-2, and with a lead of 2-0.
In the second half it was the Eagles who scored early and often, putting in five goals. They scored one goal off of a free kick, and another of the five on a penalty kick. The game ended 7-0, and it was Centenary's third loss of the season.
For the game, Damien DiBuono (Succasunna, NJ/Morris Catholic) and Jason Rogers (Washington, NJ/Warren Hills) combined for five saves. The Cyclones are looking to rebound as they begin CSAC Conference play with an away game against Cabrini College on Saturday.
Matt Winkler Named to CSAC Honor Roll
Matt Winkler (Great Meadows/Hackettstown) was named to the CSAC Honor Roll for the week ending in 9/28. Matt scored both game winning goals in the team's pair of victories over Brooklyn College and York (NY) College. As a result the Cyclones went 2-0 for the week and improved to 6-2-1 on the season.
Winkler Gets Game Winner In Win Over York
(9/25/08) The men’s soccer team took on the York College Cardinals on a chilly Thursday afternoon on Cyclone Field. Centenary prevailed, taking the game 2-0. This win was good for their 6th of the season, and their fourth straight victory.
In the first half it was the Cyclones who were putting York College under heavy pressure outshooting the Cardinals ten to four as well as earning nine corner kicks. York was able to withstand all this pressure, and created a few scoring opportunities for themselves, but the half ended with a tie game 0-0.
The second half it was the Cyclones who were finally able to break through and get on the board. Their first goal came off a ball built up from the back, and was eventually crossed the field to Matt Winkler (Great Meadows, NJ/Hackettstown) who was able to collect, touch around a defender, and back a shot in off the post to give Centenary the lead 1-0. Later in the half, a free kick just outside of the penalty box from Andrew Pinnella (Brielle, NJ/Manasquan), found the head of Chris Guadagno (West Milford, NJ/West Milford) and beat the keeper to give Centenary their final goal, and make the score 2-0.
Both goalies in today’s match had strong games. For Centenary, returning from injury, Damien DiBuono (Succasunna, NJ/Morris Catholic) was able to pick up his second shut-out on the season. York’s keeper, Pierreson Pierre-Louis made some athletic saves, and kept his team in the game all afternoon.
The Cyclones will play again after the weekend, as they take on Eastern University. Currently the men’s record stands at 6-2-1.
Boxscore
2-0 Shut-Out Over Brooklyn, Good for Fifth Win
(9/23/08) The men’s soccer team shut out Brooklyn College 2-0 yesterday afternoon to pick up their fifth win on the season. With the win, the Cyclones are now enjoying a three game winning streak, as well as improving their record to 5-2-1.
In the first half Centenary took the early lead off of an unassisted goal by Matt Winkler (Great Meadows, NJ/Hackettstown), the first of his collegiate career. Brooklyn College could not capitalize on any of their 14 shots, and the half ended with the Cyclones leading 1-0.
The second half saw Centenary find the back of the net again, this time it was Andrew Pinnella (Brielle, NJ/Manasquan) getting his head on a cross by Ryan Bilello (West Hempstead, NY/West Hempstead). This goal made the score 2-0 Centenary, and that’s how it would remain for the game. Jason Rogers (Washington, NJ/Warren Hills) recorded his second consecutive shut-out, now giving him two on the year.
The Cyclones will be back in action again Thursday, as they face York (NY) College at 4:00pm.
Boxscore
Chris Hill Named to CSAC Honor Roll
Chris Hill (Flanders, NJ/Gil St. Bernards) was named to the CSAC Honor Roll for the week ending in 9/20. Chris scored two goals in the win over Mount Saint Mary, and became the Cyclones Men’s Soccer All-Time leading scorer. He currently has six goals on the season.
Esocobar-Castro's PK Wins 2-1 Decision for Cyclones
- Edgar Escobar-Castro
(9/13/08) The men’s soccer team took on the Purchase College Panthers Saturday afternoon, and were able to leave satisfied as they came away with a 2-1 victory. This victory puts the Cyclones back above .500 as their record now stands at 3-2-1.
In a first half that saw the Cyclones very much on the attack with 14 shots, only one was able to find the net. That one goal was scored by Chris Guadagno (West Milford/West Milford) his third of the year, making the score 1-0, and that’s how it remained to finish the half.
Not to be trailing for long, Purchase was able to tie the game, 1-1, midway through the second half, as Geoff Robbins scored off an assist from Jefferson Perrales. The game remained tied until the final five minutes, when Centenary was awarded a penalty kick. Edgar Escobar-Castro (Lawrence/Lawrence) was elected to take the kick, and converted, putting the Cyclones ahead 2-1 with just a few minutes left on the clock. Those few minutes were not enough for Purchase, and Centenary took the game 2-1.
Boxscore
Hill Becomes Men's Soccer All-Time Leading Scorer in Win
(09/17/08) Chris Hill (Flanders, NJ/Gil St. Bernard) became Centenary men’s soccer all-time leading scorer as he passed Kissinger Barreau in the men’s 5-0 win over Mount Saint Mary. The mark improves the Cyclones to 4-2-1 on the season, while Mary lowers to 1-4.
In the first period, Centenary struck four minutes into the half when Andrew Pinnella (Brielle, NJ/Manasquan) scored on a volley off a throw from Ryan Bilello (West Hempstead, NY/West Hempstead). The half remained the same until the last four minutes, when Luis Villacis (Newark, NJ/St. Benedicts) connected on a cross from Matthew Winkler (Great Meadows, NJ/Hackettstown) to end the half with Centenary leading, 2-0.
The second half started out even until Hill subbed in, and was able to find the net for the record breaker off a bounced around ball served from a corner kick. Hill added onto his record when he got free off of a pass from Bilello near the top of the box and scored his second goal of the afternoon, making the score Cyclones 4, Blue Knights 0. The Cyclones got their 5th goal when Alex Walters (Sciota, PA/Pleasant Valley) scored off a penalty kick. The half stayed that way for the remainder giving the Cyclones the game 5-0.
Hill’s goals were his 5th and 6th of the season, in which he still currently leads the team. Also playing a solid game for Centenary was goalie Jason Rogers (Washington, NJ/Warren Hills) who made six saves, and recorded his first career shutout. For the Blue Knights, keepers Paul Aries and Pat McGinnis combined for six saves.
The Cyclones will be back in action on September 22, as they go on the road to face Brooklyn College at 4 o’clock.
Men's Soccer Fall to #6 Montclair State
(9/12/08) The Men’s Soccer Team took on the 6th ranked Montclair State University under the lights and were defeated 6-0. This loss drops the Cyclones record to 2-2-1 on the season.
In the first half Centenary was under heavy pressure from the Red Hawks, yet despite giving up one goal, the defense was able to hold off any further damage leaving the score 1-0 at half.
In the second half however Montclair turned up their offense, and began a scoring spree which saw them net goals in the 50th, 52nd, 54th, and 58th minutes of the game. They scored one final goal late in the half to make the final score 6-0.
For the Cyclones, Damien DiBuono (Succasunna/Morris Catholic) did his best to hold off Montclair’s offense making nine saves. The men have a quick rebound though, as they will take on Purchase College this upcoming Saturday.
Boxscore
Chris Hill Named to CSAC Honor Roll
- Chris Hill
(9/8/08) Named to the CSAC Honor Roll for the week was Chris Hill. He scored four goals, including the game-winning goal against Alfred University and the game-tying goal versus Lycoming as the Cyclones opened the season with a 2-1-1 record. He now leads the team with four goals.
Cyclones Take Second in Classic With Win Over Staten Island
(9/7/08) In the afternoon’s second game the host Cyclones rolled to an 11-1 victory over the Dolphins of College of Staten Island. With the win Centenary took the second place finish behind Hunter College, who went a perfect 2-0 in the tournament. The Cyclones were awarded the runner-up trophy over Purchase College, by way of a goal differential tie breaking system. The win improves Centenary to 2-1-1 on the season while CSI drops to 0-2.
The scoring opened quickly in the first half as the host Cyclones recorded a pair of early goals from Chris Guadagno (West Milford/West Milford) and Ryan Bilello (West Hempstead, NY/West Hempstead). Staten Island answered right back however, as Jason Ribiero scored following a Centenary turnover to pull the deficit to 2-1. Unfortunately for the Dolphins from there it was all Centenary. The men would tally three more goals in the period, a second from Guadagno, and one each from freshmen James Corey (Jackson/Jackson Memorial) and Andrew Pinnella (Brielle/Manasaquan). The halftime break came with home team leading 5-1.
In the second it was more offense from the Cyclones. The team’s leading scorer Chris Hill (Flanders/Gil St. Bernards) recorded goals three and four on the season early in the half, with a goal by Edgar Escobar-Castro (Lawrence/Lawrence) coming in between. These three extended the advantage to 8-1 with just over 25 minutes remaining. From there the home team took on a possession style of play, used a frequent substitution pattern, and brought home the win, but only after creating three more scoring opportunities. Corey and Escobar-Castro each added a second score, while junior Damien Gallegos (Rutherford/Queen of Peace) notched his first goal of the season. All three Centenary goalkeepers combined for the victory, while making just one save. Boxscore
Second Half Penalty Kick Gives Hunter the Win
(9/7/08) – In the second day of competition of the Cyclone/Premiere Classic, saw Purchase College take on Hunter College. Both teams won their games in the opening day of the Classic.
In the opening period Purchase got on the board first when Dan Grabowski converted a long cross by Geoff Robbins to put Purchase ahead 1-0. Hunter was able to even the game shortly after, when Diego Guerrero received a ball inside the box and was able to score. The half ended with the scored tied at a goal apiece.
In the second period Hunter was awarded a penalty kick in the half’s first five minutes. Andreas Kalpaxis took and scored the kick putting Hunter ahead 2-1. This goal would prove to be the game winner, as Purchase could not get another score. Robbins of Purchase finished the Classic with three goals and one assist.
Hunter was recognized as the Champion of the 2008 Cyclone/Premiere Classic with a perfect 2-0 weekend, while improving to 2-3 on the year. The loss on the other side drops Purchase to 1-1 on the season.
Boxscore
Early Goal Holds Up As Hunter Downs the Cyclones
(9/6/08) - In the days second game of the Cyclone/Premiere Classic Hunter College outlasted Centenary 1-0 to give Centenary their first loss of season. Centenary’s record now drops to 1-1-1 on the season while Hunter now improves to 1-3.
In a mostly defensive first half, Hunter was able to get themselves on the board when a crossed ball got knocked around in the box before finally being put into the back of the net by Deigo Guerrero in the 23rd minute. The Cyclones were able to record eight shots in the first half but the score remained 1-0 going into the second half.
In the second half more defensive, physical play ensued. Centenary were able to get multiple chances at the goal, however, could not find the answer as Hunter walked away from their opening game of the tournament the 1-0 victors.
For Hunter their lone goal was scored by Guerrero and goalie Noah Fessler was big in net as he recorded six saves. The Cyclones had a host of players contribute numerous shots on net and keeper Damien DiBuono (Succasuna/Morris Catholic) made two saves.
Both teams are in action again tomorrow in the Classic. Hunter plays the first game against Purchase while Centenary closes out the day against the College of Staten Island.
Purchase Wins 6-3 to start Cyclone/Premiere Classic
(9/6/08) - In a very exciting and high scoring opening game to the Cyclone/Premiere Classic, Purchase College got the victory over Staten Island on a score of 6-3. This game makes Purchase 1-0 and drops Staten Island to 0-1.
The first half saw a lot of goals, and it was started off by Purchase’s Daniel Grabowski who scored 2 minutes into the game after dribbing past the goalie to make the score 1-0. Staten Island was able to answer when Kenneth Zaw scored in the 25th minute tying the game at a goal apiece. Purchase’s Geoff Robbins then scored three straight goals to make the score 4-1. Not to be put out of the game, Staten Island returned the favor with a goal by Jason Ribeiro to close the half, which saw six goals, with Purchase ahead 4-2.
The second half picked up right where the first ended, as Purchase once again found the net. This time on a goal by Ki Walker in the 67th minute off a corner kick. Staten Island got a favorable bounce and as Purchased this time scored an own goal to make the game 5-3. The scoring barrage was finally rounded out when Purchases' Sebastian Ribeiro scored with 27 seconds left in the game, making the final score 6-3.
Both teams return to action tomorrow in the Classic with Purchase taking on Hunter college, and Staten Island to match up with the home Cyclones of Centenary.
Centenary Records First Win 1-0 in Double OT
- Chris Hill
(8/31/08) In day two at the Lycoming College Men’s Soccer Tournament, the Centenary Cyclones again needed double-overtime to gain a result. However, after notching a 1-1 tie in yesterday’s opener versus Lycoming, the Cyclones recorded a victory beating Alfred College 1-0 on a game winning goal by Chris Hill (Flanders/Gil St. Bernard’s).
Throughout the entire contest it was the Cyclones who controlled much of the possession creating numerous scoring opportunities. Centenary recorded 21 shots on goal over the three-plus periods, but it wasn’t until Patrick Trivino (Lyndhurst/St. Mary’s) found Hill for the combination’s second tally in as many days, that the Men came away with a victory.
The win moves the Cyclones to 1-0-1 on the early season, as was good enough for a second place finish at the tournament.. Lycoming, who scored five goals on the weekend, was crowned the Tournament Champion by way of a goal-differential tie breaking system.
Junior goalkeeper Damien DiBuono (Succasunna/Morris Catholic) who held a 0.42 GAA for the pair of games, senior Josh Spivack (Hackettstown/Mt. Olive) who played a solid midfield, and senior Chris Hill who scored both of the team’s goals on the weekend were all named to All-Tournament team. Boxscore
Hill's Late Score Gives Centenary a Tie
(08/30/08) The men’s soccer team opened their season at the Lycoming Tournament earlier today with a 1-1 tie. Both goals in the game were scored with less than 11 minutes to play.
The first half had Lycoming outshooting the Cyclones, six to three as well as earning more corner kicks three to two, however the game remained scoreless. The second half was played virtually even in both shots and corner kicks, until the 80th minute when Mike Coates gave Lycoming a 1-0 lead when he scored off a cross from Tom McVey. Quickly after however Centenary's Chris Hill (Flanders/Gil St. Bernards) tied the game on a pass from Pat Trivino (Lyndhurst/St. Mary’s).
The game was pushed into overtime where neither team could record a tally ending the game in a tie, 1-1. The Cyclones, will look to get their first win versus Alfred University on Sunday.
CSAC Coaches Select Cavaliers as Men’s Soccer Pre-Season Favorite
(8/27/08) Aston, Pa. – Cabrini College’s Men’s Soccer team has been selected as the pre-season favorite in the Colonial States Athletic Conference (CSAC) coaches’ poll. Third-place finishers in the 2007 conference championship, the Cavaliers received four of nine possible first place votes, earning 73 points to secure the top spot over Philadelphia Biblical University.
“In the inaugural year of the CSAC, we are extremely proud and honored to be voted the pre-season favorite in a very competitive league,†said Cavalier Head Coach Glen Jaskelewicz. “I think it’s a testament to our seniors over the last two years and their impact on the continuing improvement of our program. We look forward to living up to this expectation.â€
Philadelphia Biblical University earned a total of 61 points for a strong second place showing in their first year in the conference. Neumann College was selected third with 56 points.
Centenary College received 53 points for a fourth place finish. Gwynedd-Mercy College and Immaculata University tied for fifth place with 40 points each. Baptist Bible College (30), Keystone College (28) and Marywood University (24) rounded out the voting.
The 2008 CSAC Championship begins with quarterfinal action on Tuesday, November 4th. The CSAC Championship Game is set for Saturday, November 8th at the highest remaining seed.
The 2008 CSAC Championship begins with quarterfinal action on Tuesday, November 4th. The CSAC Championship Game is set for Saturday, November 8th at the highest remaining seed.
2008 Men's Soccer Season Outlook
The 2008 Centenary Men’s Soccer program kicks off its fifth season under the direction of Head Coach Keith O’Connor. This years team will rely on the leadership of the last years (12) letter winners and the addition of (15) newcomers that provide depth to this years team. In only the second season in the newly named CSAC (Colonial States Athletic Conference) Coach O’Connor and the Cyclones are certainly looking for a chance at the Conference Championship and a berth in post season play.
FORWARDS
Centenary will once again turn to its leading goal scorer from last year, Chris Hill who tallied twelve goals and was chosen as a 2nd Team ECAC All-Metro Region selection for the second consecutive year. Also returning up top is Damien Gallegos, who netted one goal and added three assists a year ago. This year’s team is excited to add more depth at the forward position with freshmen, James Corey, and Andrew Pinnella. Edgar Escobar-Castro a transfer from Mercer County College will split time between the forward and midfield positions.
MIDFIELD
The Cyclone midfield will be looking for leadership from seniors Josh Spivack (Co-Captain) who lead the team in assists last season, and Brian Esposito, a speedy outside player. They will be joined by Chris Guadagno, an attacking midfielder who netted eight goals a season ago. Making a transition from up top to the midfield will be second year player Michael Burke. This solid group of returnees will only be bettered by the addition of newcomers, Alex Walters, Nick Warminsky and Matthew Winkler.
DEFENSE
The back line of the Cyclones returns three starters from a season ago, Ryan Bilello (Co-Captain) known for his ability to get into the attack, Sean Chirico, a quick aggressive defender, and Daniel Charkowski a solid back who started every game last year. They are joined by senior Patrick Trivino and junior Andrew Eitel. Adding to the strength of the defensive prowess of the back four will be new additions, Justin Belanger, Stephen Capone, Shane Bosma, David Petrozziello, Kyle Thompson, and Luis Villacis.
GOALKEEPERS
Junior Damien Di Buono, who played in eighteen games last fall, brings experience to net this season. Di Buono made 110 saves in his second year and recorded a season long GAA of 2.62. The goalkeeper position adds much needed versatility this year by adding local freshman talents Jason Rogers (Warren Hills) a strong shot stopper and Tyler DeCraine (Roxbury) a vocal and rugged keeper. Joining them is transfer Peter Florucci who brings the ability to distribute and has a solid footwork.
2008 Men's Soccer Schedule
DATE | OPPONENT | TIME | RESULT |
|---|---|---|---|
AUGUST | |||
Sat. 23 | Mount Saint Vincent (scrimmage) | 1:00pm | W, 5-0 |
Sat. 30 | Lycoming College # | 12:00pm | |
Sun. 31 | Alfred Univiersity # | 11:00am | |
SEPTEMBER | |||
Sat. 6 | Purchase vs. College of Staten Island ^ | 10:00am | |
Sun. 7 | Purchase vs. Hunter College | 12:00pm | |
Thur. 11 | Montclair State University | 8:00pm | |
Sat. 13 | Purchase College | 2:00pm | |
Wed. 17 | Mount Saint Mary College | 4:00pm | |
Mon. 22 | Brooklyn College | 4:00pm | |
Thur. 25 | York College (NY) | 4:00pm | |
Tue. 30 | Eastern University | 4:00pm | |
OCTOBER | |||
Sat. 4 | Cabrini College % | 6:30pm | |
Wed. 8 | Keystone College % | 3:00pm | |
Sat. 11 | Philadelphia Biblical University % | 1:00pm | |
Tue. 14 | Marywood University% | 3:30pm | |
Sat. 18 | Gwynedd-Mercy College % | 4:00pm | |
Wed. 22 | Ramapo College | 3:00pm | |
Sat. 25 | Immaculata College % | 3:00pm | |
Thur. 30 | Baptist Bible College % @ | 1:30pm | |
NOVEMBER | |||
Sat. 1 | Neumann College % | 1:00pm | |
Tue. 4 | Marywood & | 1:00pm | |
Wed. 12 | Farmingdale State ! | 1:30pm | |
Home Games in BOLD
# - Games part of Lycoming Kickoff Classic Tournament
^ - Games part of Centenary College/ Premier Soccer Classic Tournament
@ - Game played at the PDA (Zarepath, NJ)
% - Colonial States Athletic Conference Game
& - Colonial States Athletic Conference Playoffs
! - ECAC Metro Region Tournament
Click here for the 2008 final season statistics.
2008 Men's Soccer Roster
| |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NO. | NAME | YR. | POS. | HT. | WT. | HOMETOWN/HIGHSCHOOL | |
00 | Peter Florucci | So. | GK | 6-3 | 155 | Barre, Vt./Spaulding High | |
0 | Damien Di Buono | Jr. | GK | 5-9 | 190 | Succasunna, N.J./Morris Catholic | |
1 | Fr. | GK | 6-3 | 210 | Washington, N.J./Warren Hills | ||
2 | Fr. | D | 5-9 | 155 | Avon, Conn./Avon | ||
3 | Michael Burke | So. | M | 5-7 | 135 | Lyndhurst, N.J./Lyndhurst HS | |
4 | Patrick Trivino | Sr. | D | 5-3 | 135 | Lyndhurst, N.J./St. Mary's | |
5 | Josh Spivack* | Sr. | M | 5-7 | 145 | Hackettstown, N.J./Mount Olive | |
6 | Dan Charkowski | So. | D | 5-11 | 150 | Wayne, N.J./Wayne Hills | |
7 | Sean Chirico | Jr. | D | 5-10 | 155 | Oak Ridge, N.J./Morris Catholic | |
8 | Fr. | F | 5-9 | 150 | Jackson, N.J./Jackson Memorial | ||
9 | Chris Guadagno | Jr. | M | 5-7 | 150 | West Milford, N.J./West Milford | |
11 | Chris Hill | Sr. | F | 6-0 | 175 | Flanders, N.J./Gil St. Bernard's | |
12 | Andrew Eitel | Jr. | D | 5-8 | 160 | Andover, N.J./Morris Catholic | |
13 | Nicholas Warminsky | Fr. | M | 5-5 | 140 | Ringoes, N.J./Hunterdon Central | |
14 | Fr. | M | 5-10 | 155 | Great Meadows, N.J./Hackettstown | ||
15 | Ryan Bilello* | Jr. | D/M | 5-10 | 140 | West Hempstead, N.Y./West Hempstead | |
16 | Fr. | M | 5-7 | 160 | Sciota, Pa./Pleasant Valley | ||
17 | Damien Gallegos | Jr. | F | 5-10 | 150 | Rutherford, N.J./Queen of Peace | |
18 | Brian Esposito | Sr. | M | 5-8 | 160 | Washington, N.J./Warren Hills | |
19 | Fr. | F | 5-9 | 155 | Brielle, N.J./Manasquan | ||
20 | Edgar Escobar-Castro | Fr. | M/F | 5-9 | 160 | Lawrence, N.J./Lawrence | |
21 | Fr. | D | 6-0 | 190 | Toms River, N.J./Toms River South | ||
22 | Fr. | D | 5-7 | 135 | Branchburg, N.J./Immaculata | ||
23 | Fr. | D | 5-11 | 160 | Newark, N.J./St. Benedict's | ||
24 | Stephen Capone | So. | D | 5-9 | 160 | Westwood, N.J./Westwood | |
30 | Fr. | GK | 5-9 | 185 | Roxbury, N.J./Roxbury | ||
* - denotes captains | |||||||