Ithaca College Bombers Maintain Unbeaten Soccer Season

The Ithaca College men’s soccer team extended its unbeaten streak to four games, defeating Misericordia University 3-1 on September 9 at Carp Wood Field. This victory advanced the Bombers' record to 3-0-1, highlighting the team's effective use of player rotation and depth.

Kuhn's Strategic Roster Management

Head coach Gabe Kuhn implemented three changes to the starting lineup against Misericordia, introducing senior midfielder Jack Nelson, sophomore defender Kloden Rapp, and first-year midfielder Gabriel Robinson. The team executed 17 substitutions during the match, nearly tripling the number used in their September 6 game against The College of New Jersey.

Kuhn emphasized the necessity of leveraging the team's full roster. He stated that consistent substitutions and lineup rotations are crucial for sustaining performance, particularly as the team approaches conference play. This strategy aims to provide opportunities for more players and maintain competitive pressure.

Early Offensive Control Established

Ithaca College established control early, with senior attacker Jack Carney scoring the opening in the 16th minute. Carney converted a cross from junior midfielder Josh Bourdoulous, putting the Bombers ahead 1-0. Despite taking 12 shots in the first half, the score remained unchanged at halftime, as Misericordia goalkeeper Brayden Milbrandt made two key saves.

The Bombers continued their offensive push in the second half, testing Misericordia's defense with numerous runs. First-year midfielder Edin Estrada extended the lead to 2-0 in the 70th minute with a shot into the top corner. Just two minutes later, in the 72nd minute, first-year defender Dylan Zimmerman added a third, bringing the score to 3-0.

Dominant Performance Despite Late Misericordia scored its sole in the 89th minute Misericordia scored its sole in the 89th minute from a penalty shot by junior midfielder Noah Romig, preventing a clean sheet for Ithaca. Despite the late concession, the Bombers maintained a significant advantage in shots, outshooting Misericordia 23-8 by the match's conclusion. Senior defender Colin Adams noted that players coming off the bench energized the team and maintained high morale. Maintaining Momentum on Road Schedule Looking ahead to an upcoming three-game road schedule, Coach Kuhn acknowledged the team's effective ball possession and attacking movement. However, he identified winning contested moments and loose balls as areas for continued improvement. The Bombers are scheduled to face King’s College on September 12 in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, aiming to extend their unbeaten run.