A&M tops TCU in OT

By Austin Wall

Photo by:Hartstein

Aggie defense during some down time against TCU

The Texas A&M Aggies launched their 2010 Campaign Saturday against the Horned Frogs of Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, TX.

The game started off quickly for the Aggies, with senior midfielder Austin Wall (2g, 2a) scoring the first goal of the game on an unassisted dodge from up top. The Aggies continued strong throughout the first quarter, adding 3 more goals and setting the tempo for what appeared to be a match that would be controlled by the Ags. However, TCU added their second goal late in the quarter to bring the score within two heading into the second quarter.

The second quarter saw the Horned Frogs go on a 3-1 goal run. The Aggies showed some of their first game jitters during this quarter, committing many penalties and allowing TCU to capitalize on man-up opportunities. The score read 5-5 heading into halftime, with much momentum on TCU’s side.

The second half opened up with a fired up Aggie squad, looking to take control of the game. However, after a quick goal by A&M freshman attack Logan Farmar (3 g, 0 a), the Frogs continued where they had left off in the second quarter; scoring 3 unanswered goals.

Entering the fourth quarter, the score read 6-8 in favor of TCU. Despite the deficit, the Aggies appeared determined to fight their way back. Capitalizing on TCU penalties, the A&M man-up was able to put goals in as the fourth quarter drew on. The Aggie defense, led by junior Tom Fleps also helped in the efforts, only allowing 1 goal during the quarter and successfully clearing the ball out of A&M’s side on several occasions. A&M tied the ball game with just under two minutes left; a final two minutes that provided a flurry of fast paced play as both teams tried to top the other. When time expired the score was tied at 9 goals apiece.

The Horned frogs learned the meaning of sudden death during the overtime period. The Aggies made short work of TCU during the overtime, scoring within the first minute of play. Sophomore Walker Colt (1g, 0a) scored his first tally of the game when he dodged down the right alley and put a low shot past the TCU goaltender to win the game for the Ags.

The Aggies celebrated a well deserved win, but realize that they must play better to defeat opponents down the line. The Aggies will be relying heavily on underclassmen this year. 10 of their overall 14 points came from underclassmen. One area in particular to watch is the young aggie attack, with freshmen Logan Farmar (3g, 0a) and Ben King(2g, 1a) looking to integrate their skills into the A&M system. This talented tandem will look to provide dividends down the road for the Aggies.