BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - Jack Grossman's 19th-minute goal propelled Boston U. to an early lead, but Northeastern orchestrated a stunning comeback, ultimately prevailing 3-2 before 842 fans at Boston University's Nickerson Field. Grossman slotted home Sebastian Otero's perfectly weighted through ball, giving the Terriers' opponents their eighth win in their last 11 matches. The visitors, however, refused to back down, eventually snuffing out Boston U.'s resistance in the dying minutes.
The early breakthrough set the tone for a tense first half, with both teams marshaling their defensive resources. Boston U., riding a four-match unbeaten streak before this loss, commanded a significant portion of possession but struggled to create clear-cut chances beyond Grossman's opener. Northeastern, meanwhile, absorbed the pressure, waiting for counterattacking opportunities that ultimately materialized in the second half.
The turning point arrived precisely at the restart, as John Roman dispatched a well-taken goal assisted by Pharis Petrica and Diego Rived, leveling the score at 1-1. The equalizer sparked a more open contest, with both teams creating half-chances. Boston U. continued to control possession, but Northeastern's counterattacks became increasingly menacing. The visitors' second goal, courtesy of Neil Devnani in the 86th minute off Julius Rüger's assist, shifted the momentum decisively in their favor.
As Northeastern celebrated Devnani's goal, Boston U. pushed hard for an equalizer, leaving themselves exposed on the counter. The hosts were caught twice on the break, allowing Bryce Flowers to seal the win with his 90th-minute goal, assisted by Jaden Prado and Derian Berisha. The flurry of late goals added drama to an already intense match, with Boston U.'s efforts ultimately proving futile.
The statistical ledger reveals a tale of two halves. Boston U. outshot Northeastern 12-1 in the first half, but the visitors gained parity in the second, outshooting their hosts 5-8 overall. Northeastern held a marginal advantage in corner kicks, 4-3, by halftime, eventually finishing with four to Boston U.'s eight. The Terriers' goalkeeper made six saves, while Boston U.'s custodian stopped three shots. Boston U.'s wasteful finishing ultimately cost them, as they failed to convert their numerous chances into goals.
The victory represents more than three points for Northeastern; it snaps their six-match winless streak and boosts their confidence heading into their next match against Drexel. For Boston U., the loss ends their four-match unbeaten run and leaves them with a 8-5 overall record. The Terriers will look to bounce back against American University.
Looking ahead, the paths diverge sharply for these two teams. Boston U. will need to regroup and address their defensive vulnerabilities, while Northeastern will aim to build on their momentum. The afternoon belonged to Northeastern—and specifically to their clinical finishing in the second half.
Key Players:
Jack Grossman (Boston U.) – Slotted home the opening goal with composure, giving Boston U. an early lead.
John Roman (Northeastern) – Equalized with a well-taken goal at the start of the second half, turning the match on its head.
Neil Devnani (Northeastern) – Scored the decisive second goal, capitalizing on a Boston U. defensive lapse to put Northeastern ahead.
Sebastian Otero (Boston U.) – Provided the incisive through ball that unlocked Northeastern's defense for Grossman's opening goal.