Lakers Fall in Consolation Bracket, Conclude Historic Season at NJCAA National Tournament

BATAVIA, N.Y. - In their final game of a remarkable season, the Finger Lakes Community College men's soccer team fell 8-2 to Raritan Valley in the NJCAA National Tournament consolation bracket. Despite the tough result, the Lakers capped an unprecedented season that saw them capture their first-ever Region III Championship and record several victories over nationally ranked teams during the regular season and regional tournament.

Raritan Valley's early offensive momentum set the pace, putting the Lakers behind with four goals in the first 21 minutes. The Lakers responded with a goal by Ben Domann (Wuppertal, Germany/Gesamtschule), assisted by Robin Giesing (Essen, Germany/Gymnasium-Essen-Werden) in the 25', making it 4-1. However, Raritan Valley maintained their offensive pressure, bringing the score to 5-1 before halftime.

In the second half, Joao Antonio Rocha (Sergipe, Brazil/Colegio Master) found the net unassisted in the 73' to bring the Lakers within six, but Raritan Valley added a final goal to secure the win. Rocha's goal marked a fitting end to a season where he played a pivotal role as the team's midfield engine and playmaker.

The Lakers finish the year with an impressive 15-5-3 record (3-1-2 in the Mid-State Athletic Conference), a national ranking, and the pride of having pushed the program to new heights.