TOWSON, Md.– With a massively important conference match-up at DeSales scheduled for Saturday, Eastern University Men's Soccer rested several players and played with a different line-up in its final non-league test of the year at Goucher College. The depth of the Eastern squad proved to be enough as Billy Walenda scored in the 95th minute to lift the Eagles (13-3-1) to a 2-1 overtime win over the host Gophers (6-6-5).

The Eagles had the advantage in possession through the opening minutes of the match. First-year midfielder Steven Sandoval put away the first goal in the 19th minute off a pass from Sean Dougherty. A Goucher defender made a lunging effort to save Sandoval's shot from close range, but the low strike had too much power and deflected into the net.

"It was good to see Steven play a lot of minutes," Head Coach Mark Wagner said after the match. " He has been injured, but he brought great energy and willingness to defend. He buzzed around the field all night."

The Eagles had a 5-2 edge in first-half shots, and it appeared that Sandoval's strike might prove to be enough as the clock rolled on in the second half with the ball in the Eagles' offensive end. The Gophers found an equalizer in the 82nd minute on just their third shot of the half. The Eagles had two chances to win the match in regulation, but Goucher goalkeeper Michael Layer stopped shots from Walenda and Dougherty in the final five and a half minutes.

The Eagles fought off a Goucher corner kick early in the overtime period before Walenda curled in the game-winner from outside the box. The sophomore winger cut the ball back to his right foot and for the decisive strike.

"Overall, we are pleased that we were able to get a result," Wagner concluded. "It was a strong team effort tonight. We didn't allow many chances and worked well in possession."

The Eastern head coach lauded the efforts of Chad Mentzer on the right flank for his ability to keep the ball, defend well, and provide good service. He also remarked that first-year forward Jake Sankey was a constant threat in the attack.

Jamie Stratton made three saves to pick up the win in goal.

Eastern will play at DeSales at 2:30 on Saturday. With a win or a tie in that match, the Eagles will secure a spot in the MAC Freedom Tournament. If the Eagles were to drop that game, they would need for Wilkes to upset Manhattanville. DeSales has already secured a spot in the Tournament.