The Fighting Scots took to the field on Saturday–seniors for the last home game of their collegiate career, in a conference matchup with Grinnell College. On a dreary, cold, and rainy day, Monmouth would have to contend with tough conditions as well as a tenacious opponent.
A win would have placed the Scots in a strong position for the final playoff spot and the day began well. After 17 minutes, regular goal scorer Alvaro Alvarez hit the board after a nice team move, resulting in a simple tap in provided by enterprising full-back Kai Jones. Alvarez doubled the goal tally later in the half as Lucas Sondgeroth found him with a through ball that even Christiano Ronaldo would have been pleased with. The Scots gave up a goal just before the half after a wonder strike from the Grinnell striker which seemed to give them confidence and momentum heading into the second half. Grinnell managed to find an equalizer early in the second half to tie the game as the Scots had a battle on their hands. Midway through the second half Lucas Sondgeroth finished off a fine move combining with flamboyant Frenchmen Nico Esparon to take the lead once again in this topsy turvy affair. Unfortunately, two late goals from Grinnell College allowed them to snatch victory from Monmouth as the game ended 3-4. Monmouth’s discipline and marking were once again under the spotlight as the Scots failed to deal with set pieces, a part of their game that will need to be addressed.
After the defeat, the Scots paid tribute to the nine seniors that have graced this program with commitment and tenacity evidenced in their on-field performances this season. The final regular-season game is a crucial clash Saturday afternoon against table dwellers Ripon College.
Kieren Marshall - Contributing Writer