On a road trip to upstate New York last Tuesday, Sep. 2, the Monmouth Hawks took down the Iona University Gaels by a final score of 2-1, helping head coach Robert McCourt hit a milestone of 200 career wins as head coach of the Monmouth Men’s Soccer program.
Through his first 20 seasons, McCourt has led the Hawks to great success through multiple conferences during his time as head coach, including ending last season with an appearance in the CAA conference tournament. Starting his 21st year, his 200th win was in grasp.
Just under 23 minutes into the game, the Hawks were on the board first. Jakob Friedman, senior forward, took a corner kick from the right side. Damian Taraska, freshman defender, headed Friedman’s attempt in. The Hawks were able to keep their 1-0 lead through the end of the first half.
The Gaels struck back in the 63rd minute with a penalty kick goal from Alvaro Maneiro, sophomore midfielder. The game was tied at one a piece.
Just 20 minutes later, Monmouth scored what was both the final and winning goal of the game. Jasen Bottini, sophomore forward, scored on a free kick from just outside the 18.
The Hawks gave McCourt an additional win this past weekend in a 3-2 win over the Drexel Dragons while on the road in Philadelphia. Their next game will be Saturday, Sep. 13 against the Northeastern Huskies at home where the Hawks will attempt to extend their winning streak.
