Bermudian forward Xahvi DeRoza provided the decisive moment in a sensational comeback, scoring his first collegiate goal to lead the University of New Hampshire (UNH) Men's Soccer team to a stunning 3-2 victory over Binghamton in their America East opener at the Bearcats Sports Complex.
Trailing by two goals with just over 13 minutes left on the clock in the second half, the Wildcats launched a remarkable late offensive surge, scoring three unanswered goals to steal the win.
Binghamton held a comfortable 2-0 lead until the 77th minute, when UNH finally broke the deadlock. Freshman midfielder Gershom Matimano ignited the rally by scoring his first collegiate goal, pulling the Wildcats back into the contest.
Momentum quickly swung. Senior forward Elias Khodri then produced a spectacular finish to tie the game at 2-2, setting the stage for the dramatic finale.
With the score deadlocked and time winding down, it was the Bermudian freshman who delivered the dramatic blow. In the 88th minute, DeRoza collected the ball and unleashed a brilliant strike from 25 yards out, sending his shot to the lower right side of the net. The ball found the back of the net, clinching the 3-2 victory and securing DeRoza his first career goal and the game-winner.
The incredible three-goal comeback ensures New Hampshire starts its America East campaign with a crucial three points.
