Soccer Qualifies For Playoffs With Senior Day Win

On a day that honored the first class of 2-year graduates in program history, the Hawks Soccer team qualified for the YSCC playoffs with a 2-1 victory over Vermont State University Randolph. 

Both sides knew the stakes heading into the final match of the season. York County held a one-point lead on VTSUR in the YSCC standings with just one match left to play. To advance to the playoffs, the Hawks needed a win or a draw, and the Knights were in must-win mode. 

The match started slowly, heading into the half 0-0, before Consolation Sumbu opened the scoring in the second half with a PK in the 61st minute. Vermont put the pressure back on the Hawks, controlling possession for the next 15 minutes before netting the equalizer in the the 79th minute. The deadlock would not last long, though. After the ensuing kickoff, Hawks striker Kevin Paulino - who was honored pre-match as part of the graduating class - took it upon himself to net the winner in the 81st minute. 

"This is a great accomplishment for a great group of boys" said Head Coach Chris Melino. "They've worked tirelessly all season and have earned this playoff appearance."

The 6th seeded Hawks will travel up to New York on Saturday to take on the 3 seed Paul Smith's College in a first-round playoff matchup. Kickoff is at 6pm and the match will be streamed live on the YSCC Network.