Monmouth Stuns Drexel 3-2 with Second-Half Blitz at Vidas Field
Jasen Bottini's Brace Sparks Hawks' Dramatic Comeback Victory
PHILADELPHIA, PA – Monmouth produced one of the most remarkable comebacks of the season, scoring three unanswered goals in a stunning 20-minute span before holding off a late Drexel surge to secure a thrilling 3-2 victory at Vidas Field on Friday night.
In a match that will be remembered for its incredible second-half drama, all five goals came after the break in a wild 33-minute period that had fans on the edge of their seats. The Hawks' Jasen Bottini emerged as the hero with a spectacular brace, while Victor Andersson's crucial strike proved to be the game-winner.
The first half was a cagey affair with both teams feeling each other out and creating limited clear-cut chances. Despite the tactical battle and physical play that saw multiple fouls, neither side could break the deadlock before the interval. The match appeared to be heading for a typical defensive struggle, but what transpired after halftime was anything but typical.
Monmouth broke the stalemate in the 48th minute when Jasen Bottini found the top right corner with a clinical right-footed finish. The Hawks' forward showed excellent composure to beat the Drexel goalkeeper and give the visitors the lead they had been searching for throughout the opening period.
The Dragons struggled to respond to going behind, and their problems mounted when Bottini struck again in the 67th minute. This time, the Monmouth striker placed his shot low into the left corner with his favored right foot, doubling the Hawks' advantage and seemingly putting the game beyond Drexel's reach.
Monmouth continued their relentless pressure, and Victor Andersson made it 3-0 in the 77th minute with a composed finish low into the center of the goal. The Swedish midfielder's right-footed strike appeared to have sealed a comprehensive victory for the Hawks, who had completely dominated the second half up to that point.
However, Drexel refused to surrender and mounted a desperate late comeback attempt. The Dragons pulled one back in the 79th minute when Mateo Camejo rose highest to head home from close range, finding the bottom left corner to give the home side a lifeline when it seemed all hope was lost.
Just two minutes later, the Vidas Field crowd erupted as Julian Pittaoulis made it 3-2 in the 81st minute, drilling a right-footed shot into the bottom left corner. Suddenly, what had looked like a comfortable Monmouth victory became a nerve-wracking finale with nearly 10 minutes plus stoppage time remaining.
The final stages saw Drexel throw everything forward in search of an equalizer, but Monmouth's defense held firm under intense pressure. The Hawks showed great character and defensive organization to see out the remaining minutes and secure all three points.
The statistics reflected Drexel's overall territorial advantage, with the Dragons outshooting Monmouth 15-12 and earning more corner kicks (5-3). However, the Hawks proved more clinical when it mattered most, converting three of their 12 attempts while Drexel could only manage two goals from their 15 shots.
Both goalkeepers were kept busy throughout the contest. Drexel's keeper made six saves but couldn't prevent the three-goal burst, while Monmouth's goalkeeper produced four crucial stops, particularly important in preserving the lead during the frantic final minutes.
The physical nature of the match was evident with Drexel committing 10 fouls to Monmouth's 8, though the referee managed to keep control without resorting to any red cards. Three yellow cards were shown during the match - one to Monmouth and two to Drexel - as both teams competed fiercely for every ball.
Both coaches made extensive use of their benches, with a combined 31 substitutions made throughout the match. Monmouth made 16 changes while Drexel made 15, as both teams sought to maintain intensity and find the right combinations to influence the game.
For Monmouth, this victory represents a massive three points on the road against a conference rival. Bottini's brilliant brace and Andersson's crucial goal showcased the Hawks' attacking quality when they click into gear. The way they weathered Drexel's late storm also demonstrated the mental toughness that could serve them well as the season progresses.
Drexel will rue their inability to capitalize on their statistical dominance and home advantage. The Dragons created enough chances to win the game but were undone by a devastating 20-minute spell where Monmouth's clinical finishing made the difference. The late rally showed character, but ultimately it was too little, too late.
This result will give Monmouth tremendous confidence moving forward, proving they can win tough road games even when not at their best statistically. For Drexel, the focus will be on maintaining their positive play while improving their defensive concentration during crucial periods of matches.
The match served as a reminder that in college soccer, momentum can shift dramatically, and games are never over until the final whistle. Monmouth's ability to seize their moment and then hold on under pressure could prove to be a defining victory in their season.