Rutgers-Newark Advances to NJAC Semifinals on Vieira Overtime Winner

Augusto Vieira scored in the 99th minute of overtime on Saturday afternoon at Frederick Douglass Field, lifting the Rutgers University-Newark men’s soccer team to a 3-2 victory over SUNY New Paltz and securing a spot in the New Jersey Athletic Conference semifinals.

The win improves the Scarlet Raiders’ record to 9-3-5 overall. They now advance to face top-seeded Montclair State on the road.

Scarlet Raiders Build Early Two-Goal Advantage

Rutgers-Newark controlled the opening half of play and established a comfortable lead before halftime. Ali Celik opened the scoring in the 16th minute by finishing a setup from Chihiro Suenaga. Ian Brown then doubled the advantage in the 37th minute, converting an assist from Noah Russon to put the hosts ahead 2-0.

The visitors fought back after the break. SUNY New Paltz cut the deficit to one in the 68th minute. With just 33 seconds remaining in regulation, an own goal allowed the Hawks to equalize at 2-2 and force the match into extra time.

Vieira Secures Overtime Victory in the Ninety-Ninth Minute

The extra period did not last long. In the 99th minute, Michael Reis set up Augusto Vieira, who delivered the game-winner to end the match. Vieira finished the contest with a team-high three shots.

Goalkeeper David Bejarano played the full 98 minutes and five seconds, recording one save to earn the win. Celik and Brown each contributed a goal, while Reis, Russon, and Suenaga chipped in with assists.

Upcoming Semifinal Showdown at Montclair State

The Scarlet Raiders move on to face top-seeded Montclair State on Tuesday, November 3, at 7 p.m. The winner of the semifinal match advances to play for the NJAC Championship.