Erie, PA – Seven student-athletes from Penn State Behrend men’s soccer team celebrated their Senior Day with a 4-0 win over Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference (AMCC) rival Penn State Altoona.
The seven notables, Ryan Banks, Brian Bodnar, Zach Herd, Zach Ohl, Josh Teti, Jerry Tortella and Lance Sabol all contributed on the day.
In a game that celebrated so many seniors also showcased Behrend’s depth and young talent. 35 minutes into the match, sophomore Danny Poljak headed a ball off a David Steen cross to score the game winner for the Lions (10-2-3, 6-0 AMCC). The Freshmen Steen’s second assist came with just 49 seconds left in the first half. CJ Burger would connect his first college goal to put Behrend up two over Altoona (8-8, 5-2)
Jerry Tortella was the only upperclassmen to score for the Lions. The goal came off a midfield pass from Zach Herd then one-timed by Jake Gamble ten minutes into the second half to set Tortella up for the easy chip shot over Altoona’s goalie.
The final Behrend tally was an unassisted goal. Jake Szul’s initial shot was blocked, rebounded and then netted on his second attempt to give the freshmen his first career goal and the Lions a 4-0 win.
Behrend goalie Chirs Bolea and his defensive front had another excellent game holding the Altoona Lions to a stingy two shots on goal and nine shots total in the shutout.
The men’s soccer program will continue their undefeated streak into next week’s match against Hilbert at 3 p.m.