Eastern Florida Men's Soccer Falls 1-0 in Semifinal

After 83 minutes of hard-contested, physical soccer, a ball off the foot of winger Nestor Peralta ended Eastern Florida State College's dreams of a national title Friday night in Axton, Virginia.

That goal was all it took for Tyler Junior College to win the semifinal match of the NJCAA Division I men's soccer championships 1-0, sending the Titans home, heads held high, with a record of 15-2-2. Tyler will face Louisburg in Saturday's final match.

"It was a disappointing result but I'm proud of the effort the boys put in tonight and all season long," coach Oliver Twelvetrees said.

The match was marked by stellar defensive and midfield work on the Titans' part, the only thing close to a threat from the Apaches coming in the 65th minute, when goalkeeper Kekuta Jatta tipped a certain goal over his bar.

"They had one bit of quality in the whole game," Twelvetrees said. "It was very frustrating, but again, I'm proud of our effort."

Defender Wilfred Williams said he too was frustrated and disappointed, but pleased with a season that brought the Titans within a match of a championship.

"What we got out of this season was a lot of good, of accomplishment," he said. '"I am so disappointed, but I am so proud of our team."

NEWS MEDIA CONTACT: Mark DeCotis, Athletic Communications

Office: 321-433-5700   Cell: 321-759-4540   Email: decotism@easternflorida.edu