Men's Soccer Storms Back to Punch Ticket to the CCS Championship

MARYVILLE, Tenn. -- "It was an unforgettable game," said head coach Pepe Fernandez. "The outcome, along with the entire season, highlights just how special this group of players is."

Fernandez's sentiments for his team could not be more fitting after Maryville's 3-2 victory over Belhaven, stunning the Blazers out of a championship.

For much of the match, it looked as though the Blazers were about to derail Maryville's championship run. Belhaven struck early in the fifth minute with a goal finding the back of the net, and then again shortly after halftime to double their lead.

Down 2-0 with less than 15 minutes to play, the Scots needed to pull out something special, and they found it. 

The rally began in the 77th minute when CCS Rookie of the Year Ben Brophy buried a shot off an assist from Brady Hammer, cutting the deficit in half, and waking up the crowd.

Three minutes later, Hammer found his own magic, shooting in the equalizer in the 80th minute, sending Belhaven into chaos. Barely a minute later, Hammer had to step up and convert a penalty kick into a goal. After an eternity, Hammer scored his second goal of the night, and the Scots' third goal in an incredible four-minute span. 

From two goals down to one goal up, the Scots had flipped the script. 

Goalkeeper Tanner Ricks made sure to close out the victory, producing five saves to preserve the 3-2 win and send Maryville into Saturday's CCS Championship match against Covenant. 

After the final whistle, Fernandez could not be prouder of his team.

"Their determination and team spirit have been a pleasure to witness," said Fernandez. "They are thrilled about the chance to compete for a championship title next weekend!"

With this victory, the Scots are turning their focus to Covenant and the CCS title game, which is just one final chapter in what's been a season to remember.