CLAREMONT, CA: Pomona-Pitzer started off their home campaign with a bang as big offensive plays and timely defense paved the way to a 10-9 over #2 Johns Hopkins.
In front of an electric crowd at Haldeman Pool, the Sagehens (4-5, 0-0 SCIAC) built an early 6-1 lead in the second quarter on the back of Senior Phillip Clayman's two goals before a 7-3 run by Johns Hopkins brought it within one with 2:52 remaining in the game. However, Junior Neil Forsythe responded less than 30 seconds later with a goal of his own to give the Hens all the breathing room they would need to withstand a late Blue Jay rally and win 10-9.
This victory was the second high-profile win for Pomona-Pitzer this season as Johns Hopkins entered today's game ranked as the #2 Division-III team in the country and 17th overall. Clayman lead the way for the Sagehen offense netting a season-high three goals while Freshmen Adam Ward and Max Ries (pictured) totaled two goals apiece in their first game at Haldeman Pool. Sophomore Goalkeeper Daniel Diemer played a strong game in net as well, compiling a game high 12 saves including two crucial saves in the fourth quarter.
"It was a great game and the boys just played well tonight" said Interim Head Coach Alex La. "We could've done a better job of handling it in the end, but we got some timely goals and ultimately we worked together and won as a team tonight. With the tournament this weekend, we've just got to keep on going and continuing to play as a team; we need guys looking for each other and playing selfless ball."
The Boys of Haldeman will return to action tomorrow as they co-host the Gary Troyer Tournament with Claremont-Mudd-Scripps. The Sagehens will open up the tournament with a matinee 3pm game versus Fresno Pacific before playing MIT in the nightcap at 6:45pm. Live coverage for Friday's games will be brought to you on the Pomona-Pitzer Athletics Website.
