Soccer beats Bethel 2-1 in double overtime nail biter

On Oct. 14, the Johnnie soccer team was just starting their second overtime against Bethel, but they did not have to wait very long after to end the game. 18 seconds in, senior Tommy Picka scored the game-winning goal which propelled SJU to victory.

“It was an amazing feeling getting that game winning goal,” Picka said.

Ryan Erickson saw space for Picka to split the Royals’ midfield and defense.

“Once Ryan passed the ball towards me I knew I just needed to get a touch on the ball before the defender and I would have a chance and sure enough I got my opportunity and capitalized in a very important moment for us.”

Head Coach John Haws also commented on Picka’s play.

“Picka had a great week as he was involved in three of our four goals in the two wins. He has been doing a great job of leading by example on the pitch as I would want a veteran student-athlete to do,” Haws said. Picka and the other senior leaders have been staples of consistency for this Johnnie soccer team. Their experience hopes to help lead SJU deep into the playoffs.

The Johnnies again came through victories in their game against Hamline on Oct. 17. Junior Ryan Erickson scored the game-winning goal with only 29 seconds remaining in the game. Erickson propelled the Johnnies to their 7th win of the season, and the 99th win of Haws’ career.

The final score of the game, due to the last minute goal, was 2-1. This gave the Johnnies their second win in a row. They are picking up momentum at the perfect time, with just three games before the MIAC playoffs. The Johnnies hope to carry this momentum into the playoffs and win the MIAC conference tournament.

However, the Johnnies have had to deal with some adversity throughout the season with some tough losses. Haws provided an overview of on their past three games they have played.

“The last 3 games are a good illustration of just how tight the MIAC is right now in soccer,” Haws said. The Johnnies dropped a great game against St. Olaf 1-0 in double OT, who are currently atop the league table and 17th in the nation. SJU would go on to win their next two matches in double OT, picking up two crucial wins against lower table teams Bethel and Hamline.

The Johnnies did not hang their heads after losing such a hard-fought game against St. Olaf, but instead used the loss to fuel their current two game winning streak. The Johnnies are a very resilient team and they are showing it at the time when it matters. They are consistently staying in games. Their dedication gives them a chance to win every time they go out on the field.

“We have to be more consistent in playing a complete game for the full 90 minutes. We’ve learned a lot about ourselves and our character this season and I’m sure those lessons will prove to be valuable as we move closer to playoff time,” Picka said. He believes that the Johnnies have learned so much throughout the season, and that all the adversity they have faced thus far will the year can help fuel them come playoff time.

Haws has also praised his team’s defensive ability. “I am pleased with how we are playing defensively as the playoffs approach. We’ve conceded the least goals in the conference thus far,” Haws said.

This strong defensive ability is what Haws believes can propel the Johnnies deep into the MIAC playoffs and bring home a championship. The Johnnies look to continue their recent hot streak to end the season. Before they head into the MIAC playoffs, they face off against Macalester, St. Scholastica, and Carleton for their final three games.