Miami Gardens, FL – On a day where seniors Christopher Jean and Javier Taveras had their names called for the final time at Bobcat Field, the entire men's soccer team was able to feed off the emotional tide as St. Thomas dominated Embry-Riddle 5-1.  The win against the Eagles was the first in over five years, and the victory also clinched a postseason berth for the Bobcats for the first time since the 2004 season.  The 'Cats are peaking at the right time of the season, as they conclude regular-season play Saturday against Webber International, and then play in the Sun Conference semi-finals on November 8^th.

The defense was able to subdue a dangerous Embry-Riddle attack, as only nine shots on goal were allowed, and goalkeeper Aaron Jones was able to stop them all spare a free kick from Ryan Woods in the 64^th minute.  Although the defense was indeed stellar, the offense was the story of the game as St. Thomas took advantage of its chances and converted ten shots into five goals, with three of the strikes being assisted. 

Nicolas Albojer started things off right by putting a deflected cross from Dale Arendse into the back of the net in the 25^th minute to give the Bobcats an early lead, and a boost of confidence.  The game went scoreless until the 59^th minute, when Nicolas Albojer served an immaculate cross to Gabe Renteria who volleyed the ball over the head of goalkeeper Alfredo Diaz for the highlight of the game. 

After Woods drew the Eagles back to within a goal, Albojer struck again with a blistering top-shelf strike in the 75^th minute.  Not satisfied, Sunday Ogundasi and Juan Sanchez connected on a pair of goals in the final ten minutes, with Sanchez creating opportunities (and earning two assists in the process) and Ogundasi capitalizing with two goals.  

With the post-season nearing, the Bobcats were able to keep their composure and not fall victim to the physical play that marred much of the second half.  Although STU did draw three yellow cards, they were able to stay cool after blatant acts by the Eagles drew a red and a yellow card in the 81^st and 83^rd minutes. 

Coach Felix Mats said he feels like the team is clicking going into the Sun Conference Tournament, and sites improved health of his team as a prime example.  Having to integrate would-be starters into the lineup for much of the season hurt team chemistry early on and led to inconsistent play.  However, with an almost completely healthy roster, and added time playing with each other, the team has improved familiarity which has led to more fluent offense as of late.

The players are equally optimistic about their chances for the tournament and feel as if they have as good a shot as any to win their first postseason match since 2000.  The 'Cats will look to continue their growth in their final game against Webber International this weekend, before a week of preparation for the tournament.  The Bobcats will face either Northwood or Warner Southern in the first round, depending on the outcome of the weekend matches.