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AU Downs Radford in Men's Soccer Scrimmage
West Welcomes Back Nine Starters from Last Season

August 15, 2001

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- American's men's soccer team opened its 2001 season with a 3-1 win over Radford in a scrimmage held here on Saturday afternoon. It was the first organized contest of training camp for the Eagles, who began practicing on August 15.

Freshman John Fico netted two goals in his first collegiate action, while senior Adam Rosen added one. Bobby Brennan, making a comeback from a season-ending shoulder injury, was strong defensively in his return. Junior keeper Mike Behonick made four saves in net, while junior transfer Jeff Kinney started in the center midfield and controlled much of the action for the Eagles.

"In general, it was a very strong performance after only three days in camp," said second-year head coach Todd West. "We are thrilled with all of our new players, and with the main core of our team returning, things are very competitive for starting positions.

"Our bench is deeper than last year, and we feel this will allow us to sustain a consistent level through our difficult schedule."

American returns to preseason action on Monday, August 27, when it takes on DC United of Major League Soccer (MLS) in an 11:00 a.m. contest.

The Eagles open their formal 2001 campaign when it takes part in the DC Challenge. AU travels to cross-town rival Georgetown for first-round action on Friday, August 31, at 2:00 p.m. The consolation and championship games will be played on Sunday, September 2.