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BURLINGTON, Vt. – In an exciting matchup, Vermont Catamounts (10-2-5, 4-1-2 AE) are set to host the fourth-seed Bryant Bulldogs (10-5-4, 4-3-0 AE) this Sunday afternoon at 1 p.m. at the iconic Virtue Field for the 2024 America East Men’s Soccer Championship Game. This marks a significant moment for the Catamounts, as it represents their third appearance in the Championship game within the last five seasons, and notably, it is the first time they have hosted the event since 2015.
This highly anticipated contest is officially a sell-out, with fans strongly encouraged to don gold attire to show their support. The entire event from Virtue Field will be broadcast live on ESPN+, featuring play-by-play commentary by Brian McLaughlin, with expert analysis from Adam Pfeifer, the Head Coach and Sporting Director of Vermont Green FC. Additionally, an international feed will be accessible for free at AmericaEast.TV, ensuring fans from around the globe can join in on the action.
RELATED LINKS
CatamounTV Press Conference: Coach Dow | Barrett
Watch Live – ESPN+
International Stream (FREE)
Live Stats
INSIDE THE MATCHUP
- Bryant secured a thrilling victory against the top-seed UNH on Thursday, triumphing at Wildcat Stadium after an intense 110 minutes of scoreless play, ultimately winning 4-2 in a dramatic penalty shootout.
- Bryant, the defending America East Champions, previously overcame UNH last year with a nail-biting 1-0 win on the road, thanks to a clutch goal from senior forward Jonas Lyshoj in the 102nd minute.
- This Sunday will mark the sixth encounter between the Catamounts and Bulldogs, with Vermont holding an impressive 5-0-0 record against Bryant. In their last meeting, the Catamounts edged out Bryant 1-0 on the road with a decisive goal from Yaniv Bazini.
- On October 19, UVM outperformed the Bulldogs with a similar 1-0 scoreline at Virtue Field, courtesy of Pieter Bultman’s remarkable first career goal, clinching the match.
- Bryant has showcased a formidable defense this season, allowing only 11 goals, which ties them with Penn for the best defensive record in the NCAA.
- Antreas Hadjigavriel, the standout goalkeeper for Bryant, is currently riding an impressive shutout streak lasting 308:03 and has only conceded two goals in a game on three occasions this season.
CHAMPIONSHIP GAME HISTORY
- The Catamounts prepare for their 11th appearance in the America East Championship Game, boasting a record of 5-4-1 in their previous 10 appearances, with their first title achieved against Boston University in a thrilling PK shootout back in 1990.
- Remarkably, five out of Vermont’s six America East titles have been won while entering the tournament as the two-seed, a position they find themselves in this year as well.
- When it comes to Championship games held at home, Vermont has an impressive 3-1-0 record, with their latest triumph occurring in 2015 when Brian Wright propelled the Catamounts to a 1-0 victory over Binghamton at Virtue Field.
- The Catamounts aim to make history by being only the second team in the program’s history (the first being in 1989) to capture at least a share of the Regular Season title alongside the tournament championship.
HOME PLAYOFFS
- Vermont holds a historical record of 12-9-3 when playing as the home team in the America East Tournament.
- Despite having previously won three NCAA Tournament home games over the last two seasons, UVM currently faces a 2-4-1 record at Virtue Field during the America East Tournament under the leadership of Coach Dow.
CATAMOUNTS JUST KEEP ON ROLLING
- Since 2021, the unstoppable Catamounts have maintained an impressive record of 20-0-0 when managing to score three or more goals in a match, showcasing their offensive prowess.
- With a current winning percentage of .735, Vermont ranks an impressive 16th in the NCAA, underscoring their competitive edge.
- The Catamounts’ depth and offensive strategies have repeatedly proven effective this season, with a remarkable tally of 15 goals scored in the 76th minute or later, and 11 of those coming in the 83rd minute or later.
- Vermont boasts a stunning +18 goal differential this season, leading America East and ranking tied for 16th in the NCAA, further highlighting their commanding performance.
MAJOR AWARDS FOR THE CATAMOUNTS
Sydney Wathuta – AE Midfielder of the Year
- Sydney Wathuta made history as the first Catamount to receive this prestigious honor, marking a significant milestone for the program.
- He tops the league and ranks third in the nation with an impressive 11 assists to his name this season.
- His contributions have been pivotal in helping the Catamounts achieve the league’s best goals per game average (1.94) and an outstanding scoring margin of 1.1.
Zach Barrett – AE Defender of the Year
- Zach Barrett has been a vital force in anchoring a Catamount defense that recorded a league-low five goals allowed during America East play.
- He becomes the third Catamount ever to be honored as Defender of the Year, and the first since Connor Tobin earned the accolade in 2008.
- Barrett secured a game-winning goal in a notable 2-0 victory over NJIT, demonstrating his offensive contributions as well.
AE Coaching Staff of the Year – Rob Dow, Brad Cole, Rory Twomey, Brendan Pulley & Mack Walton
- This coaching team has successfully led the Catamounts to a share of the regular season title for the first time since 2019, marking a significant achievement.
- The staff also propelled the team to lead America East with a total of 31 goals while tying for first place with a remarkable +17 differential.
For news and updates about the Vermont men’s soccer program, follow @UVMmsoccer on Instagram, X, and Facebook, and visit UVMathletics.com.
EastRise Credit Union is the presenting sponsor of Vermont Soccer
What strategies is Coach John Dow implementing to ensure the Vermont Catamounts perform at their best in the championship game?
**Interview with Vermont Catamounts Head Coach John Dow Ahead of America East Championship Game**
**Editor:** We’re joined today by John Dow, head coach of the Vermont Catamounts, as his team gears up for the exciting America East Men’s Soccer Championship Game against the Bryant Bulldogs. Coach, thank you for being here.
**Coach Dow:** Thanks for having me! It’s a great time to be a Catamount.
**Editor:** Vermont has had an impressive season, currently sitting at 10-2-5. How are you feeling about the team’s chances heading into the championship game?
**Coach Dow:** The team has shown a lot of resilience and determination this season. With a solid record, I believe we have what it takes to perform well on Sunday. Plus, playing at home adds an extra boost of energy.
**Editor:** This will be your third championship appearance in the last five seasons. What does that say about the program’s growth and commitment?
**Coach Dow:** It’s a testament to our players’ hard work and the culture we’re building here at Vermont. We’ve been able to attract and develop some great talent, and it’s showing. We’re eager to compete and hopefully bring home another title.
**Editor:** The Catamounts have a perfect record against Bryant in your previous encounters. How much does that history influence your strategy?
**Coach Dow:** While past results can give you confidence, every match is different. Bryant is a strong team; they just came off a thrilling win against UNH. We’ll respect their improvements and prepare accordingly, focusing on our style of play.
**Editor:** The game is a sell-out, and fans are encouraged to wear gold. How important is the support from the community and fans in this match?
**Coach Dow:** The fans are crucial! Their energy and support at Virtue Field can really make a difference. I’m looking forward to seeing a sea of gold out there; it makes the atmosphere electric.
**Editor:** any key players we should watch for on Sunday?
**Coach Dow:** Keep an eye on our midfielders, especially Sydney Wathuta. His contributions have been vital this season, and our forwards are also in great form. Let’s just say our offense is peaking at the right time.
**Editor:** Thank you, Coach Dow. Best of luck in the championship game!
**Coach Dow:** Thank you! We appreciate the support from everyone and can’t wait for Sunday. Go Cats!