A goal by sophomore Jack Burridge was all Fairfield needed to defeat No. 6 Loyola 1-0 and win the MAAC Championship in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. on Sunday.
Loyola entered the game ranked sixth in the country and boasted an 18-0-2 record. The Stags meanwhile entered with a record of only 10-7 and finished third in the MAAC.
‘This team just became galvanized as the season progressed,’ said head coach Carl Rees.’ ‘We knew it would take a special effort to win today and I have special kids that put on an extra special performance this afternoon.’
Goalkeeper Justin Burse recorded his second shutout of the tournament for the Stags, following up Friday night’s 4-0 victory over Siena. Burridge’s goal was the second of the tournament for him.
With the win the’ Rees and the Stags advance to the NCAA Tournament for the second time in the past three seasons.
Fairfield will enter the NCAA tournament with a record of 11-7, while Loyola drops to 18-1-2, losing its first game in the past 27 contests. The Greyhounds should earn an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament as well.
The NCAA tournament bracket will be announced on Monday, Nov. 18 on ESPNEWS between 6-6:30 p.m.
For more information continue to check www.fairfieldmirror.com.
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