Phoenixville, PA – The University of Valley Forge Men's Soccer team concluded their 2017 season against the Gators of Pine Manor in the ACAA's inaugural conference championship semi-final. After a valiant rally in the second half, the Patriots would eventually fall to their opponents from New England.

Valley Forge began the afternoon with high hopes for the contest, facing an unfamiliar opponent in a neutral setting at Phoenixville High School. The Patriots methodically played to their defensive strength in the early goings of the first period, registering a quick save within the first five minutes. Pine Manor would soon draw first blood, however, with a lofty, high arching shot to take an early lead. From there, the Patriots would continue to enforce a strong defensive front, shutting down Pine Manor for the next 20 minutes. Around the 24-minute mark, Pine Manor would finally punch through Valley Forge's bend but don't break squad, going up 2-0. The score would remain at that mark for the final minutes of the period.

The second half saw Valley Forge's offense come alive. After forcing a series of Pine Manor fouls, Samuel Bikim took Valley Forge's first shot of the game, just barely sailing over the post of the goal. Valley Forge would quickly regain possession of the ball, setting up for a corner kick by Bikim. Following the quick launch off of the corner, a back and forth ensued, leading to Valley Forge's first goal of the game, scored by Brandon Nyekan. Pine Manor would find itself rebounding quickly after Valley Forge's offensive burst, scoring their third goal of the game just 38 seconds later. From there, Pine Manor took over, notching two more goals on their way to a 5-1 victory. The Gators would improve to 11-5-1, moving on to the conference championship game, with the Patriots fell to 3-13, being eliminated from the ACAA Championship tournament.

Pine Manor will move on to face SUNY Canton in the ACAA Championship game on Sunday, November 5th.  Game time is scheduled for 2:30 pm.