The Bowdoin Men's Soccer Team is feeling the pressure. The Polar Bears are gritting their teeth in anticipation of Saturday's game against Wesleyan.
If Bowdoin defeats Wesleyan, the team will secure a home team advantage for the first round of the NESCAC playoffs. If Bowdoin returns with a loss, the team will be forced to travel and play on unfamiliar turf for the first playoff match.
The Polar Bears have been on a winning streak, with a 4-1 record for the past five games. Bowdoin had shutout victories against Tufts, Connecticut College, and most recently, Trinity College.
Adding a tie against Wheaton College and a win over Gordon College, the Polar Bears have made it into the top 25 in the National Soccer Coaches Association of America Division III poll. They are ranked 21st.
In Saturday's game, senior co-captain Andrew Russo tied the school scoring record of 32 career goals. He curretly shares the record with David Bulow '02 and Gima Asmerom '73.
Simon Parsons '07 scored in the first five minutes of play against Trinity. In the second half, Wolf Grueber '08 increased the tally with another goal.
The Polar Bears shut out Trinity 3-0, improving their overall record to 10-2-1.
The secret to the team's recent success seems to be its strong defense.
Nathan Lovitz '08 has made 18 saves in the past three games and has only allowed two goals in the past five games. Helping Lovitz protect the net are co-captains Mike Crowley '06 and Willie Waters '06, who form a defensive wall in the backfield.
Bowdoin offense is also strong. Sophomore Nick Figueiredo has made two game-winning shots in recent matches, tallying four goals and three assists in the past five games. Parsons and Russo also have strong scoring records as well.
The guidance of new head coach Fran O'Leary has given the team a boost.
The team looks to preserve its winning streak this Saturday at Wesleyan.