Hawks Reach Division II Peak; Win NJCAA Crown
November 24, 2024
Northeast edged out the Neosho County (Kan.) in the 2024 NJCAA Division II Men's Soccer National Championship with a nail-biting 2-1 victory. The win gave Northeast their first-ever NJCAA National Championship in any sport.
The game kicked off with an early lead for Neosho County, thanks to a goal by Dylan Roberts 11 minutes into the contest.
However, the Hawks quickly responded (just four minutes later), capitalizing on a fortunate play where Lewis Rourke's header hit the post and then deflected off the goalkeeper, equalizing the score before the half-time whistle.
The match's decisive moment came in the second half when Aleksander Pedersen skillfully netted the game-winner for Northeast with 26 minutes remaining, shifting the momentum firmly in favor of the home team.
Key contributors for the Hawks included Edouard Nys, who was relentless on offense, registering 11 shots with five on target. Overall, Northeast outshot Neosho County 21-14 while putting 11 shots on goal to just three for the Panthers.
Key contributors for the Hawks included Edouard Nys, who was relentless on offense, registering 11 shots with five on target. Overall, Northeast outshot Neosho County 21-14 while putting 11 shots on goal to just three for the Panthers.
Northeast goalkeeper Mathias Kristoffersen contributed defensively making two crucial saves that helped secure the narrow lead.
For Neosho, goalie Grant Thackray was very busy making nine saves -- but ultimately it was not enough.
The win reflects Northeast Community College's perseverance. The Hawks fell in the NJCAA Semifinals a season ago, but this year were able to propel and prevail to win the National Championship.
The win reflects Northeast Community College's perseverance. The Hawks fell in the NJCAA Semifinals a season ago, but this year were able to propel and prevail to win the National Championship.
National Tournament Schedule:
Championship - (5) Northeast def. (2) Neosho County, 2-1 - Box Score
Semifinal - (5) Northeast def. (1) Pima, 2-2 (5-3 PK) - Box Score
Pool Play #2 - (5) Northeast def. (4) Phoenix, 6-2 - Box Score
Pool Play #1 - (5) Northeast def. (9) Mercer County, 2-1 - Box Score