Colgate Survives Red Card to Defeat Fordham 2-1 in Hamilton Thriller Raiders Build Two-Goal Lead Before Playing Final 50 Minutes Down a Man
HAMILTON, NY – Colgate weathered a dramatic red card and a spirited Fordham comeback attempt to claim a thrilling 2-1 victory on August 30th at Andy Kerr Stadium, showcasing remarkable resilience in what became a tale of two halves.
The Raiders struck twice in a dominant first-half display, with Cole Ramey opening the scoring in the 26th minute. Jack Beerling's perfectly weighted assist found Ramey in space, and the forward made no mistake with a low left-footed finish that nestled into the bottom corner.
Colgate's tactical superiority was evident throughout the opening period, as they controlled possession and created the better chances. Their patient build-up play paid dividends again in the 39th minute when substitute Aidan Wright doubled the advantage. Wright, who had entered just 14 minutes earlier, capitalized on Gavin Krauss's assist with a precise right-footed strike into the bottom right corner.
However, the complexion of the match changed dramatically just moments later. Charlie Yates received a straight red card for violent conduct in the 39th minute, forcing Colgate to navigate the final 50-plus minutes with ten men. The dismissal came during a heated exchange following Wright's goal, with tensions boiling over as Fordham's Daniel D'Ippolito also picked up a yellow card for unsporting behavior.
The numerical disadvantage forced Colgate into a more defensive posture for the second half, and Fordham seized the initiative. The Rams peppered Eric Widrick's goal with attempts, outshooting their hosts 8-7 in the second period. Their persistence finally paid off in the 58th minute when they pulled one back from a corner kick situation, with the goal credited to the team following a scramble in the box.
Fordham's attacking intensity increased dramatically after their goal, with Ede Gramberg leading the charge up front. The forward registered three shots on the night, including two dangerous efforts in the second half that tested Widrick's reflexes. Daniel Lang also proved a constant threat from defense, contributing four shots including an early effort that struck the woodwork.
Colgate's defensive organization proved crucial in preserving their lead. Despite being reduced to ten men, they managed the game expertly, with goalkeeper Eric Widrick making six crucial saves to keep Fordham at bay. The Raiders' discipline in their defensive shape frustrated Fordham's attacking efforts, even as the visitors enjoyed more possession in the final third.
Blake Pipkin emerged as a key figure for Colgate in the second half, dropping deeper to help with defensive duties while still posing a threat on the counter-attack. His four shots demonstrated his dual threat capability, keeping Fordham's defense honest even as they pushed forward desperately seeking an equalizer.
The match's physical nature was evident in the final statistics, with both teams accumulating multiple yellow cards. Fordham's frustration showed as the clock ticked down, with late bookings for Thomas Gray and substitute Nikola Kolega highlighting their desperation to find a leveler.
Colgate's victory was built on clinical finishing in the first half and resolute defending thereafter. Despite being outshot 15-10 overall, the Raiders made their chances count when it mattered most, demonstrating the kind of tactical maturity that could serve them well throughout the season.
Key Players
- Eric Widrick (Colgate) - Made six crucial saves to preserve the victory, showing excellent shot-stopping ability under pressure while playing behind ten men for most of the match
- Cole Ramey (Colgate) - Opened the scoring with a clinical finish and provided the foundation for victory with his movement and link-up play before receiving a late yellow card
- Ede Gramberg (Fordham) - Led Fordham's attacking efforts with three shots and constant pressure, creating numerous chances in the second half comeback attempt