The Grand Rapids Community College men’s soccer team looked to avenge a slow performance in their prior game, which they did in controlling fashion as they defeated Bryant and Stratton 10-1.
Offensively, GRCC took advantage of the numerous scoring opportunities as they had 24 more shots on goal and 57 more shots in general throughout the game.
The Raiders started the game by dominating the time of possession, as they spent the entire first half on the offensive end. This allowed freshman striker Mahomed Tamour to score off a corner kick pass from freshman striker Elijah Maas making the lead 1-0.
They continued to get great shot attempts, as freshman defender Chase Laarman scored at the 25:54 mark from an assist from freshman striker Cristian Diaz.
Later in the half, the Raiders intercepted a pass from a Bobcat defender which led to another goal from Tamour, which was assisted by freshman defender Ian Gunderson.
Heading into halftime, the Raiders had a total of 31 shots, had nine total corner kicks, and completely controlled the possession of the game. In fact, the Bobcats did not tally a single shot in the first half which was a testament to the Raiders’ defense stepping up while the offense was patient with possessions.
More of the same occurred in the second half as two minutes in, the Raiders found the net once again. Freshman striker Jordan Marquez scored with an assist from freshman winger Lucas Freriks.
The Raiders had a few more scoring chances but were unable to capitalize, which led to the Bobcats’ first and only goal of the game with 27:21 remaining in the game.
Immediately, GRCC responded as freshman central midfielder Balkeerat Sahota scored only a few minutes later to give the Raiders a 5-1 lead.
From this point on, it seemed like the Raiders scored on every opportunity they got. Freshman winger Alexander Lagazo scored off of an assist by freshman winger Reed Kaman. During a corner kick, the Raiders missed their first chance, but freshman defender Xander Fredericksen scored to make it 7-1.
GRCC scored three goals within seven minutes which ultimately put the game away. In dominant fashion, the Raiders came away with the victory 10-1.
The Raiders had 60 total shots compared to the Bobcats three, along with 26 shots on goal compared to the Bobcats two. Freshman goalkeeper Brett Miller had one save throughout the game, as the Raider defense made it a priority to shut down the Bobcats offensive attack.
Following the victory, GRCC improves to 7-1-1 on the season as their conference record stays the same at 5-0-1.
GRCC faces Cuyahoga Community College on Saturday, Sept. 23 at MacKay-Jaycees Park at 1 p.m.
