MONROE, CT — The Masuk Boys Soccer team rallied from an early 1-0 deficit to defeat the visiting Bristol Eastern Lancers 3-1 under the lights of Benedict Stadium, securing the Panthers’ first round CIAC Playoff game victory late Tuesday afternoon.
Barely three minutes into the game, Masuk conceded a goal due to a handball called in the box. The penalty kick was executed and the Panthers were swiftly down 1-0.
Masuk rebounded when Cash Dewey was fouled in the box within 25 minutes of the first half. Co-Captain Tristan Pike made the penalty kick, tying the game at 1-1.
Both teams fought admirably until 14:30 was left in the half.
Co-Captain Kasper Murzinski scored on an exquisite assist by Cole Rigby putting the Panthers in the lead 2-1.
Defensively, Masuk continuously contained attacks from Bristol Eastern, keeping them scoreless for the remainder of the game.
Cristiano Rivera added the finishing touch by scoring a goal with 12 seconds left in regulation, resulting in the final score of 3-1.
With the win, Masuk will advance to the second round of the CIAC tournament. The Panthers will play against the Platt Tech Panthers, the No. 4 seed, at the Orange Avenue Athletic Complex in Milford this Thursday at 2 p.m.
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