FREDERICKSBURG, Va. (Nov. 23) -- For the first time since 1979, the Denison Big Red men's soccer team has advanced to the NCAA Tournament quarterfinals, delivering a dramatic double overtime victory over the top-ranked team in the nation, Mary Washington. The Big Red emerged victorious in the third round of the NCAA Division III Tournament with a 1-0 win, thanks to a resilient defensive effort and timely execution in double overtime.
Both teams entered the match with just one loss on their records, highlighting the strength of their respective seasons. Mary Washington's only defeat came at the hands of Division I University of Virginia, a 4-2 result that underscored the Eagles' offensive prowess. As the No. 1 ranked team in the United Soccer Coaches poll for a good chunk of the season, Mary Washington carried an impressive streak of scoring in every game this season. Facing such a formidable opponent, Denison rose to the occasion, delivering a disciplined performance that not only handed the Eagles their first shutout of 2024 but also marked their exit from the NCAA tournament.
Denison found themselves in a back-and-forth battle during regulation. The game began with an evenly matched first half, as both Denison and Mary Washington created several scoring opportunities. Both teams were eager to get a point on the board early, but strong defensive efforts on both sides ensured the match remained scoreless heading into halftime.
In the second half, Denison's strong possession game began to emerge as the Big Red built momentum with quick counterattacks and controlled play in the midfield. The back line stood tall, consistently preventing Mary Washington's crosses from the corners and limiting their dangerous opportunities.
Tommy Prokos remained a crucial presence in goal, making key saves to deny the Eagles' strong attacking efforts.
Denison's offensive persistence created chances of their own, including
Jake Krueger's one-touch shot off a header that was saved by Mary Washington's Freddy Rogers.
Kameron Kist's free kick from 30 yards out that narrowly missed wide hinted at Denison's ability to find a goal.
Overtime saw Mary Washington apply immediate pressure, showcasing their offensive strength by earning a free kick just outside the Big Red's 18-yard box. The shot went around Denison's four-person wall and was headed towards the goal. However, Denison's defense held firm, with
Tommy Prokos coming up with yet another crucial save to keep the game alive. The first overtime period ended with Denison's resilient defense managing to deny the Eagles a breakthrough.
In the 104th minute,
Kameron Kist stepped up once again to take a free kick for the Big Red, delivering a well-placed ball into the crowded box. Mary Washington's goalkeeper, Rogers, leaped to punch the ball away, but his clearance didn't travel far enough to eliminate the danger. Like we've seen earlier in the tournament, positioned perfectly,
Zarius Eusebe capitalized on the loose ball, sending a composed finish into the back of the net to secure the golden goal victory for Denison.
The Big Red showcased their trademark resilience and composure, battling through adversity to earn their historic win. Denison recorded 10 shots, including seven on goal, and earned seven corner kicks in the match, while limiting Mary Washington to three corners and a tough-fought six saves from Prokos.
Head Coach
Brandon Bianco reflected on the overtime victory and praised his team's effort and resilience in such a high-stakes match. "What an ending to a great college soccer game. Mary Washington is a tremendous program, and we knew we'd have to be at our best today. The team played tremendously and showed a level of grit and heart that you need on weekends like this. This was a deserved result, and I'm so grateful to have another day with this team tomorrow," Bianco said.
With the win, Denison now prepares for a highly anticipated NCAA quarterfinal matchup, marking a defining moment in a memorable season for the program. The Big Red have been relentless in their postseason journey and will face Connecticut College in the next round. The Camels advanced after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over NCAC rival Kenyon College, setting the stage for an exciting battle as Denison returns to the pitch with a quick turnaround. Kickoff is set for 1:00 pm at the Battleground Athletic Complex at the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, Va.
