Saint Joseph's Edges Rider in 2-1 Victory
Hawks Strike Late Through Lala After Trading Earlier Goals
PHILADELPHIA, PA – Saint Joseph's secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Rider at Sweeney Field, with Glen Lala's 87th-minute winner deciding a tightly contested match that saw both sides create numerous opportunities throughout the encounter.
The Hawks carved open the deadlock just past the half-hour mark when Matteo Mazzotta burst through Rider's defensive line and thundered home a powerful strike that left the goalkeeper rooted to the spot. The 31st-minute opener gave Saint Joseph's a deserved lead after controlling much of the early possession.
Rider emerged from the halftime break with renewed intensity, pressing higher up the pitch and disrupting the Hawks' build-up play. Their tactical adjustment paid dividends in the 54th minute when Gio Polizzi pounced on a loose ball in the penalty area and rifled a shot into the top corner, bringing the visitors level and shifting the match's momentum.
The game settled into a tactical battle through the middle third, with both teams attempting to exploit wide areas while maintaining defensive solidarity. Saint Joseph's gradually reasserted control through patient possession play, pushing Rider deeper into their own half as the match entered its final stages.
Just as the match appeared headed for a draw, Glen Lala emerged as the hero for the Hawks. With three minutes remaining, Lala unleashed an unstoppable shot from the edge of the box that hammered into the back of the net, sending the home crowd into jubilant celebration and securing all three points for Saint Joseph's.
The Hawks' tactical discipline throughout the match, particularly in their defensive transitions, proved crucial in containing Rider's counter-attacking threats. Their ability to maintain composure after conceding the equalizer and continue pushing for a winner demonstrated the team's mental strength and tactical maturity.
Key Players
Glen Lala (Saint Joseph's) - Scored dramatic 87th-minute winner and consistently threatened Rider's defense
Matteo Mazzotta (Saint Joseph's) - Opened scoring with clinical finish and controlled midfield tempo
Gio Polizzi (Rider) - Netted equalizer and created several dangerous opportunities in second half