By Agathe Vanmassenhove || Sports Reporter
This Saturday marked the return of the Dips to Lancaster after a road trip across Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Following a tie at Haverford (Final: 1-1) and the very first defeat of their season at Kean (Final: 1-0); the Dips returned to Lancaster to face Swarthmore at Tylus Field (Final: 1-1). Although not a victory, the tie allowed the Dips to keep their undefeated record at home.
After their challenging road trip, the team again used their 4-4-2 lineup (4 defenders, 4 midfielders, and 2 forwards) against Swarthmore, which did not play in their favor. The team struggled to score throughout the first half but was able to sustain their defense, keeping the score tied at 0-0. However, after a conceded goal in the 58th minute of the game, the Dips clawed their back into the game, using a well-placed free kick to open up a scoring opportunity and tie the game up. Although the 4-4-2 system didn’t seem to be the best fit for the team, the teams still played a gritty game and kept their offensive pressure up. A penalty late in the game almost gave the Dips a chance at a lead, but the referee decided there was no foul from Swarthmore, and the team had to settle for another tie.
Coach Wagner decided on a different strategy against Ursinus, switching the 4-4-2 composition for a 4-3-3 composition, better fitting the strengths of each player. The lineup change invigorated the team, allowing the wingers to open the field up, and giving the midfielders the space they needed to pressure the opposing defense. The Dips dominated, scoring two goals from the midfielders, and a penalty, ending the game with a score of 3-1.
Bolstered by their new lineup, the team gets back on the road this weekend to play against McDaniel. Hopefully, another victory will follow.
Sophomore Agathe Vanmassenhove is a Sports Reporter. Her email is avanmass@fandm.edu.