BC Down

Brown 2-1 Boston College (NCAA First Round)

This was a matchup that captured the imagination. The Eagles coming into town for the first time in a few years, with a group of Brown Bears lying in wait, intent on continuing a run of success against this local ACC opponent with a point to prove. Without getting into the "why's and wherefores", it was a 1-0 victory in Chestnut Hill during the 2008 season that had seemingly prompted the end of the relationship. BC had chosen to no longer play us. Two generations on our roster remembered.....

It was clear from the kick-off that our boys were up for it. Immediately on the front-foot, we took the game to the visitors. Just ten minutes into the contest Oki picked up the ball from Tayls and ran at the heart of the visitor's defence. He beat a couple of players before unleasing an unstoppable shot into the right hand side of the goal past the helpless 'keeper. 1-0 Good guys!
The half continued in much the same vein, with our back four seemingly comfortable. But, this is a talented group of players we were facing, and a moment of individual skill saw the match tied just before half-time. Blondie from Canada sent a shot high past Grandstrand from the edge of the box, and duly celebrated by attempting to "shush" the home crowd. Bad idea on College Hill young man.....
Within minutes we were back on top with Austin beating the BC 'keeper from a few yards out following more good work from Tayls and T-Mac. 2-1 Bears. Ssshhhhhh...... You can imagine the fun that was being had in the Stevenson Field bleachers at the expense of the visiting team as both teams departed for the half-time break. Blondie wasn't too popular.....
The second half was a frenetic and, at times, physical affair. Both teams had chances to add goals, but with all due respect to Boston College, the best team won the match. As has been the case all season, our bench was utilized effectively by Coach Laughlin. Smithy came in for a laboring Robbo and produced an outstanding performance.
As the game wore down the visitors became increasingly frustrated. These ACC boys weren't handling the work-rate of our men, nor getting any joy against a well organized and stubborn back-four.
Blondie made it a night to forget for himself as yet another moment of petulance saw him get his marching orders from a referee who had finally lost patience.

Onwards and upwards (well sideways geographically) to Storrs. UConn up next. Another historical rival, another opportunity to write some history....