Rutgers–Newark Capitalizes Early to Secure Win Over Goucher

NEWARK, N.J. - The Goucher College Gophers (9-8-3 overall; 5-4 conference) traveled to face the Scarlet Knights of Rutgers-Newark (10-8-2 overall; 3-5-1 conference) in the ECAC quarterfinals. An early goal proved to be the difference, and a late insurance tally secured the Scarlet Knights' 2-0 win to advance in the tournament.

Goucher came out early with a shot by senior Paul Van Engeland just 13 seconds into the game. However, the Scarlet Knights immediately responded, finding the back of the net just over a minute later to take the early lead. Rutgers-Newark utilized this momentum and added three shots on net, forcing saves from Ale Sternini. The Gophers' offense was quiet until the 17-minute mark, when Alex Ruggles and Tiem Kuiy recorded back-to-back shots. The teams traded shots for the remainder of the half, with the Scarlet Knights recording the final shot of the half with just under three minutes left.

Rutgers-Newark opened the second half with sustained pressure, tallying three shots on net within the first five minutes. The Scarlet Knights controlled the rest of the half, adding nine more shots and seven corner kicks, while the Gophers were held without a shot. Their persistence paid off with a second goal in the 82nd minute to put the match out of reach. Rutgers–Newark registered the final shot of the contest with just over four minutes remaining.

The Scarlet Knights outshot Goucher 22-5 and held a 9-2 advantage in corner kicks. First-year Alex Ruggles led the team with two shots in the game, while Sternini recorded 11 saves in his final game in net for Goucher. 

This marks the conclusion of the 2025 season for the Goucher College men's soccer team. The team returns to action in the Fall of 2026!