Sunday, November 18, 2012

Hoyas Host NCAA Tourney 2nd Rounder

Brandon Allen (10) vs. Penn State

The Georgetown Hoyas men's soccer team continues its impressive run to a possible NCAA title, hosting the UNC Charlotte 49ers in an NCAA Tournament second round game later today at North Kehoe Field. Kickoff is at 1:00 PM and tickets are still available for just $5!

The Hoyas are seeded third overall in the 48 team field, and received a first-round bye. With a win this afternoon, the Hoyas will advance past the second round for the first time in school history: Georgetown advanced to the Sweet 16 in 1997, but was eliminated by Virginia in the second round (only 32 teams participated in the tourney at that time.) The Hoyas can also match their highest win total (18 in '94) with a victory today.

Standing in their way are the 49ers (15-3-3) who are making their third NCAA appearance in four years. Charlotte edged UAB 3-2 in a first round match on Thursday to set up this pivotal matchup with Georgetown. The 49ers made it all the way to the NCAA finals last year, losing a 1-0 heartbreaker to in-state rival UNC.

Experience may be on the side of the visitors, but the Hoyas have freshman sensation Brandon Allen (13 goals, 28 points) on theirs, as well as fellow First Team All-BIG EAST selection Steve Neumann (7 goals, 25 points.) I like the home team's chances. Looking ahead (and why not?) the Hoyas could host a third round game next Sunday at North Kehoe Field with a big win today... Why not stop by and catch the game in person? Did I mention it's only $5 a ticket?

Click here to see the complete tournament bracket.