Men’s college soccer top 25: Dec. 9

by ESNN

December 9, 2013

On frozen fields and chilly sidelines, Maryland, Notre Dame, Virginia, and New Mexico earned their spots in the 2013 College Cup in Philadelphia.

Virginia was the first to book its place in the final four with a 2-1 win over Connecticut on Friday night. Freshman star Jordan Allen put home an acrobatic overhead shot for the game-winner. The Cavaliers check in at No. 4 this week in the TDS Top 25.

Maryland was the second program to book its ticket to Philly. The Terps used a goal from Michael Sauers with four minutes left to defeat No. 7 California 2-1. This the second straight trip to College Cup for the ACC side. Maryland lost to Georgetown in the semifinal round last year. The Terps check in at No. 2 this week in the TDS Top 25.

Notre Dame joined the party later in the evening following a 2-1 win over No. 8 Michigan State. Sophomore Patrick Hodan tallied the game-winner on a brilliant shot from the top of the 18 yard box. The Irish moved into the No. 1 spot in this week’s TDS Top 25.

New Mexico was the final team through the door. The Lobos defeated No. 5 Washington (formerly No. 1) 1-0 in the final quarterfinal contest on Saturday. Sophomore Ben McKendry tallied the lone goal in the first half and the Lobos stout defense held on late against the Huskies. New Mexico climbs up to No. 3 in this week’s rankings.

For a full list of the TDS Top 25, click here.

photo credit: @LoboMensSoccer