Robert Morris’ men fall short of playoffs despite 1-0 win vs Cleveland St in season finale

From Robert Morris University Athletic Department Report

Robert Morris University men’s soccer team finished off the campaign with a 1-0 win over Cleveland State University, Wednesday afternoon. RMU ends the year with a 5-6-5 overall record and 3-4-2 record in the Horizon League. Cleveland State wrapped up 2023 with a 3-9-5 overall record and 2-3-4 in conference play.

This was the first season for the Colonials under the direction of Head Coach Jonathan Potter.

“We’re disappointed to end the season but feel there is much to build on for the future,” Potter said after the match.

“We are excited to attack this off-season to keep improving. Our players and staff are eager to continue the work required to compete for the Horizon League Championship. I want to thank all the efforts from our players, coaching staff and support staff for the 2023 season.”

MOMENTS THAT MATTERED

Heading back to home for the last time in the regular season, the Colonials took care of business on a cold Wednesday afternoon.

For the first half, both sides played strong defensively, avoiding many dangerous opportunities for the other side’s offense.

RMU did hold the advantage in the attacking zone, outshooting Cleveland State, 8-6.

Entering the second half, the Colonials picked up more time in the Vikings half, inching closer to scoring the vital goal they were looking for.

In the 77^th minute, William Dodzi Afawubo on the counterattack posted a shot on net, being saved by the Vikings keeper.

Moments later, the Colonials finally cashed in. Passing through the midfield quickly, Afawubo led the charge once again. He found Anass Hadran down the right side as the Moroccan took a touch and found John Paul Mbuthia running in, hitting his shot first time right into the back of the net.

After earning the lead, the Colonials held strong and brought numbers back on defense.

RMU avoided allowing any huge opportunities until three minutes left in the game, Cleveland State’s Carlos Portas from distance hit the crossbar just missing a score by inches.

In the end, the home side held on strong and won, 1-0. RMU achieved the win to possibly make the postseason but with tiebreaker scenarios the Colonials barely missed playoffs.

SCORING PLAYS AND CAUTIONS
71′ – Yellow Card: Carlos Portas
79′ – Goal: John Paul Mbuthia (4), Assisted by: Anass Hadran (4), William Dodzi Afawubo (2)
82′ – Yellow Card: Omeed Naeemy
90′ – Yellow Card: Kai McLoughlin