Santos De Graca, Burokas Lead Men's Soccer to Third Straight Win
NORTH ANDOVER, MA – Extending their win streak to three,
the Merrimack men's soccer Warriors rattled off a 4-0 win
over Bentley University Saturday afternoon at Warrior Field.
Scoring his first two career goals, freshman Nelson Santos
De Graca (Gothenburg, Sweden) scored the Warriors first
two goals in the eighth and 37th minutes. Both goals came on
crosses from outside the box, setup by Victor Plaza
(Jundiai, Brazil) and Olof Lindhe (Stockholm,
Sweden).
Also scoring his first two goals of the year was sophomore Evan
Burokas (Auburn, MA) from senior Kyle Lortie (Middleboro,
MA) and Robbie Sabadoz (Ottawa, ON).
Typically an assist-specialist (six on the year), Burokas buried a
free kick in the upper-ninety from 25 yards out, early in the
second half before added his second in the 60th minute.
Senior captain Doug Carvalho (New Bedford, MA)
capped his fifth shut-out of the year with four saves, including a
sprawling save on a Bentley breakaway.
Head Coach Tony Martone was happy with the win,
but spoke of the need for his Warriors to be prepared against
UMass-Lowell on Wednesday at 7:00pm on Warrior Field.
“It was a little sloppy at first, but I think we were
dealing with some tired legs out there,” Martone said.
“It was good to get the guys some rest at the end in
preparation for Lowell. [UMass-Lowell] is as talented a team as any
in the conference, so we'll need to come prepared on
Wednesday.
Improving to 10-6-1, the Warriors hope Southern New Hampshire
can knock off Southern Connecticut later today in order to secure a
home playoff contest for Merrimack.
