The West Chester Golden Rams soccer team fell to Millersville Wednesday 2-1, which brings their current losing streak to five straight games. West Chester, who was ranked preseason as the second best team in the PSAC, has fallen to sixth overall, which will not be good enough for a post season berth. Ryan Kiley of Millersville tallied the only goal of the first half in Wednesday’s contest off a free kick 20 yards away from the goal. It was Kiley’s fourth goal of the season.
Senior Captain Alex Inman got the Golden Rams started early in the first half, however, tallying his second goal of the season just seconds into the first half. The early goal appeared to give the Rams life once again but the Rams could not muster much offense this game.
In the 61st minute of the game Shane Seabrook tallied his first goal of the season for the game-winner. The Marauders (6-4-1) jumped the Golden Rams (5-7-0) in the standings this week and pulled themselves into a tie for fourth place with California (Pa.). Only the top four teams make the playoffs.
Todd Dieter played the first 64 minutes of the game, allowing both goals and picking up two saves before Josh Johnson relieved him. Johnson made one save in his 26+ minutes of play and did not allow a goal.
For the Golden Rams, the starting goaltender spot is up for grabs. Santora has been plagued with injuries this year and neither Dieter nor Johnson have gained the edge over the other for the starting position.
Last year, Santora played 16 games and recorded nine of the Golden Rams’ 14 victories. This year, Santora has been able to play in just three games this season. Johnson has seen action in eight games, while Deiter played in six. The position for starting goalie continues to be a question mark for the Rams, but it is anyone’s game to step up and win the position.
The Rams have made the playoffs in their last six seasons but are in jeopardy of missing out on the postseason this year. The five game slide has taken them from third place down to sixth in just three weeks time.
Things won’t get any easier for the Rams as Mike Pryor received a red card in the first half of the game. Pryor will not be able to play Thursday when the Rams travel to Kutztown University where they will look to break this slide as soon as possible.
The next four games could make or break the season for the boy’s soccer team. All four will be against division rivals, including a home game against California (Pa.) and a game in Lock Haven. The Rams are looking to jump both these teams if they hope to be in the playoffs.
The only game this week for the Rams is Thursday in Kutztown, but the Rams will return home Oct. 10 and will be looking for home field support from their fans when they battle Shippensburg. Every game will be important down the stretch as the Golden Rams will have to claw their way to a playoff berth.
Ken Schmidt is a first year student and can be reached at KS609536@wcupa.edu