Men’s Soccer Falls to Ocean County College in Hard-Fought Match

Paramus, NJ –  In a competitive match on Saturday, the Bergen Community College men's soccer team was narrowly defeated by Ocean County College, with a final score of 3-2. Despite a strong performance on their home field in Paramus, NJ, the Bulldogs were unable to hold off a second-half surge by the Vikings, moving Bergen's record to 3-1-1 for the season.

The game started positively for Bergen, with midfielder Oscar Gomez opening the scoring in the 22nd minute to give the Bulldogs an early 1-0 lead. Gomez capitalized on a well-placed pass from his team, slotting the ball past the Ocean County goalkeeper, Mike Vivolo.

However, Ocean County College responded in the second half with determination. Jayson Nardone equalized for the Vikings just seconds after the halftime whistle in the 46th minute, assisted by Owen Elliott. The momentum continued to swing in favor of Ocean County, as Adal Garcia scored an unassisted goal in the 72nd minute, giving the visitors a 2-1 lead.

Bergen fought back, showing resilience and determination. Forward Paolo Gatto leveled the score at 2-2 in the 53rd minute with a powerful unassisted strike, keeping the Bulldogs in contention.

Unfortunately for Bergen, Ocean County regained the lead shortly after. In the 74th minute, Jayson Nardone netted his second goal of the match with a solo effort, sealing the game for the Vikings.

The Bulldogs had numerous scoring opportunities, recording 17 total shots compared to Ocean County's 9. However, Ocean County's defense, led by goalkeeper Mike Vivolo with 4 saves, stood firm under pressure. Bergen goalkeeper Gabriel Felipe Solano made 2 saves, but the Vikings' clinical finishing proved to be the difference.

The Bergen men's soccer team will look to bounce back in their next game as they travel to Raritan Valley on 9/17.