WPU Comes Back to Defeat Rutgers-Newark, 2-1

Jay Hooper's goal in the 79th minute gave WP a 2-1 win.

WAYNE, N.J. (OCTOBER 21, 2006) – Senior Jay Hooper (Franklin, N.J./Franklin) scored in the 79th minute, finishing off a 2-1 come-from-behind victory for the William Paterson men's soccer team (7-8-1, 3-5 NJAC) against Rutgers-Newark (5-10-1, 0-8 NJAC) Oct. 21 at the Pioneer Soccer Park.

The Pioneers spotted the Scarlet Raiders an early 1-0 lead when Daniel Mezzina found the back of the net just 5:25 into the match.

Freshman Chris Tatro (Somerville, N.J./Somerville) eventually tied the match in the 62nd minute, heading a ball from Mike Petracca (Riverdale, N.J./Pompton Lakes) in for his first career goal. Hooper then scored the game winner, his second in a three-match span, on an unassisted strike. The victory was an important one for the Pioneers, who are fighting for one of six spots in the upcoming NJAC Tournament.

Junior David Casper (Franklin, N.J./Timothy Christian) made five saves in goal for the Pioneers.

Prior to the match, William Paterson paid tribute to its five seniors – Hooper, Petracca, Mike Baiata (Point Pleasant Beach, N.J./Point Pleasant Beach), Kevin Dougherty (Marmora, N.J./Ocean City) and Matt Osman ( Franklin, N.J./Franklin).

William Paterson will finish the regular season Wednesday, Oct. 25, at Kean at 7:30 p.m.

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