Men's soccer hurting but 4-3
Loren McFalls
Issue date: 9/25/09 Section: Sports
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The Dragons began their season 4-1 before dropping their last two games. Most recently, Drexel fell 2-1 to Iona in overtime Sept. 22 at Vidas Field.
The Dragons suffered a major blow early on when senior midfielder and captain Anthony Bafile was lost for the season to injury in just the third game. Several other players, most-notably sophomore midfielder Thiago Assumpcao, have had to miss games either due to injury or sickness.
In fact, Drexel's starting lineup from opening day has played just one game together.
However, in spite of all the missing manpower, head coach Lew Meehl praised those players who have stepped up for those on the injured list.
"Like any team, we'd be better if the team was healthy," Meehl said. "We've lost some important players, but it's given other players a chance to step up."
Freshman midfielder Taylor Brophy agreed with Meehl.
"It's given players a chance to really prove themselves outside of practice," Brophy said.
Malcolm LeBourne is a perfect example. Thrust into action, the freshman midfielder scored twice in Drexel's last victory, a 2-0 shutout of La Salle Sept. 16.
Other players with added roles include sophomore midfielder Andrew Goldberg (two starts, one goal) and freshman forward Joe Sales (three starts, one goal).
While it remains to be seen whether or not the Dragons can continue to ride the surprising play of these relative unknowns remains to be seen.
But with Drexel's duo of stars Fabio Assumpcao (three goals, two assists) and Mike Crosse (three goals) having stellar years so far, this team may be able to turn some heads once Colonial Athletic Association play begins for the season.
The Dragons will begin conference play at UNC Wilmington Sept. 26. Drexel's home opener is Oct. 3 against the Towson Tigers. Several former Drexel players will be back as the game doubles as Alumni Day.
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