Men's Soccer Crushes Purchase College on Senior Day

The Centenary men’s soccer team secured a 2-1 victory against Purchase College on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, at 3 p.m. 

J.E. Reeves Jr. Field saw plenty of action on Senior Day, which also coincided with Alumni and Family Day. Despite the missing bouncy houses and food trucks, most of the festivities carried on.

During the second game of a doubleheader, 360 spectators witnessed the Cyclones defeating the Panthers.

Centenary congratulated nine seniors before the game commenced, including defenders Thomas Edge, Matt Paterno, Kex Helmer; forwards Brandon Salmon and Andres Casanova; left-back Brian Osorio; midfielder Rich O’Brien; Kevin Lopez; and former midfielder Jacob Weiss.

The spectators attending the tournament complimented the Cyclones.

“The men’s soccer team is doing well at finding wide open spaces and crossing,” said Centenary sophomore Kaitlyn Shaw.

“The team is also communicating with each other better,” said junior Jayden Pennella, former Cyclones softball player.

The battle between the Cyclones and the Panthers began in the first period, which concluded with the Cyclones garnering two goals. Lopez scored with a penalty kick against the Panthers, allowing the Cyclones to take the lead with one goal. Paterno assisted freshman Jordan Cuero, helping the Cyclones boost their score to 2-0.

During the second period, junior striker David Valasquez Jr., Cuero, Lopez, sophomore Ohene Yiadom, and Casanova all brought the ball close to the goal. Jack Gjokaj saved Velasquez Jr. and Lopez. At the end of the period, the Cyclones emerged victorious, winning the game 2-1. Junior goalkeeper Kevin Velasquez Mejia recorded the victory.

After the game, the Cyclones improved their overall record to 4-7-1, following a tie against Cairn University on Wednesday, Sept. 18.

The Cyclones advanced to the Atlantic East Conference and will face Neumann University on home turf on Wednesday, Oct. 9.

Best wishes, Cyclones!