In a game similar to the dreary weather with rare but comforting bright spots, the Eastern men's soccer team squeaked out a 1-0 win over the Bears from Ursinus College. The brightest spot came in the 59th minute when junior Josh Martin slid to shoot a ball over the onrushing keeper for the winning goal.

Phil Mantua attacked the box and slotted a ball through to Martin. The Eagles took a collective breath after seeing their hard work in the second half finally pay off.

"This was a tough game," said Martin. "They were a really physical team who worked their butts off. We had to match their energy and adjust to their style of play and the wet field conditions."

Martin adjusted well, matching the energy of his opponents.

"It felt good to get my first goal of the season," said Martin. "I noticed that one of their centerbacks was pushing forward as Phil was dribbling through the middle so I tried to get into position behind the defense. I saw the keeper coming and knew I had to push it past him."

"I was proud of the Josh on the goal," said Head Coach Mark Wagner. "He knew he would have to sacrifice his body to get it and he was brave in doing so."

There was little dominant possession for either team in the first half. Eastern had just six shots and Ursinus only one.

The Eagles responded to their coaching and pressured more in the second half. Though there was only one registered shot on goal, the Bears were not without their opportunities. In the 66th, 70th, and 88th minutes, Eastern keeper Matt Lieg showed his capable presence between the bars by fielding crosses and gobbling up restarts.

Lieg replaced and injured John Crowder at the start of the second half.

"You never know what to prepare for," said Lieg. "I have to approach each game with the same mental focus; I have to be ready for anything."

With Homecoming this weekend, the team looks forward to a rematch with conference rival Wilkes University.

"This is a big game for us, an exciting one," said Lieg. "We've been winning and gaining momentum. We just have to keep rolling at this point."

For Coach Wagner, Saturday's game is a chance to recover from the past and step toward the future.

"Wilkes is a good team," said Wagner. "We have lost to them the past two years and the first time it was on Homecoming. We are looking to fight this year. But like I tell my guys, each game is just one more step toward the playoffs and a win on Saturday will just be the next step on that ladder."

Game time is set for 3:00 p.m. at Olson Field.

Box Score