X-Men pull off last minute heroics to earn 2-2 tie against Acadia

WOLFVILLE N.S. – In a chilly Friday night match at Raymond field, Acadia took on StFX, seeking redemption from a 1-0 loss at home earlier in the season to the X-Men. It looked like that would happen until X-Men freshman defender Dustin Benetti tied the game with minutes remaining resulting in a 2-2 tie.

Throughout the first half both teams offered great scoring opportunities. Acadia had several scoring chances when they pushed the pace of the game by getting to the ball first. Meanwhile, StFX's opportunities came from a more tactical approach of settling down and executing well off corners and free kicks.

The Axemen came out strong to start the second half. On a cross field pass by defenseman Lucas Chamberlain, 12 minutes into the second half, rookie midfielder Cooper Coats scored his sixth goal of the season, putting Acadia up 1-0.

Six minutes later there was a scurry in front of the Acadia net and third year midfielder Jordan Roberts put the ball past Axemen keeper Andrew MacRae to tie the game at one.

With just under seven minutes to play and Acadia on the rush, StFX keeper Sam Hutchison charged out for a loose ball, but Acadia forward and Subway Player of the Game Matthew Barrigan got to the ball first and sent a low strong shot into the back of the net giving Acadia the 2-1 advantage.

With under three minutes remaining,  StFX applied pressure with several good scoring opportunities. X-Men midfielder Randy Ribeiro's third corner kick in a row found success with Benetti sending a shot flying into the net. Tying the game at 2-2, this would be the final score as time expired.

Third year defenseman Serge Dossou was the Subway Player of the Game for the X-Men because of his aggressive play and determination throughout the game.

Acadia heads to Cape Breton on Sunday while StFX will head home to take on Memorial Sunday afternoon at 2:15 pm.

Courtesy Ashley Hasler, Acadia Sports Information Office