After Wednesday’s win against Presbyterian, the men’s soccer team looks to take down ACC opponent Virginia Tech on Saturday at Dail Field. The Pack’s offense was key in the 5-1 win, scoring three late, unanswered goals.
The Hokies are coming off a 1-0 loss to Davidson and have an overall record of 1-4-1. In ACC play the Hokies are 0-0-1, having tied Clemson earlier this season, while the Pack has dropped both of its games against ranked ACC opponents in UNC-Chapel Hill and Maryland. The game will feature strong defenses from both teams, as both the Pack and Hokies have allowed an average of less than two goals per game. State’s defense held Presbyterian to one goal Wednesday and was led by redshirt junior goalkeeper Will Mackvick, who has played every minute for the Pack this season.
“Our preparation is different for every team,” Mackvick said. “The coaching staff does a great job scouting teams, but in the end it comes down to us handling our individual assignments. Any ACC game you’re going to play is going to be a pretty intense game. We’re going to prepare well in the next few days, and bring our best team out to play.”
The Pack has recently shown a propensity for finding the net, beating VMI and Presbyterian by four goals apiece. The scoring is led by senior Akil DeFrietas, senior Chris Zuerner, and sophomore Michael Smith, all with three goals. State averages nearly a 1-goal margin of victory. Forward DeFreitas scored two goals Wednesday and added an assist in helping the team extend its lead. Quickly looking past previous losses, he said he looks forward to this season’s first win over an ACC team.
“We’re going to practice hard and work hard,” DeFreitas said. “If we follow coach’s instructions and give 100%, then that’s all we can ask for. [As a senior] you have to give 100% because anyone can step out on the field. If I give it that effort then the other players, especially the freshmen, will also.”
Coach George Tarantini said dropping two ACC games was unfortunate, but that he won’t dwell on the past.
“Remember it is not how you start, but how you finish,” Tarantini said. “We’re going to face these teams again in the ACC Tournament. We have to prepare to play everybody. Teams are going to come here and try to get victory. There is a lot of hope that we have. In the meantime we have to prepare, because every single day is very difficult.”
Saturday’s game marks the team’s third ACC opponent and its second at home.
