Nov. 29, 2009
Akron, Ohio - The improbable season of Stanford men's soccer came to an end on Sunday with a 2-0 loss to No.1 Akron. The Cardinal finish the 2009 season with a record of 12-6-2 and trip to the Sweet 16, but could not overcome the top ranked Zips to advance.
Akron used two first half goals to improve to 22-0-0 in its quest for the school's first national championship
Stanford's season ends after a pair of NCAA tournament wins, but the Cardinal could not advance past the round of 16.
Akron dominated play for most of the game, outshooting Stanford 16-4. Adam Jahn, Dominique Yahyavi and Michael Strickland all managed shots on goal, but none could beat Akron keeper David Meves.
The Zips got on the board in the 29th minute on a goal from Teal Burnbury as his header nestled inside the far post. It was the 17th goal of year for Burnbury, one of the most prolific scorers in the nation. Chad Barson assisted the goal with his cross that found the head of Burnbury.
Akron added to the lead in the 37th minute with an Anthony Amaipitakwong unassisted goal. The goal gave Akron a commanding first half lead.
Stanford fought back in the second half, but could not amount the offense to get back in the game. The Cardinal totaled all four of its shots in the second frame, but could not break through with a goal to back in it.
John Moore completed his brilliant season in goal with seven saves to give him 72 for the season. However, it was his 13th win that slipped through the grasps of him and his Cardinal teammates.
Following a four win season in 2008, the Cardinal fought back to complete an impressive season to establish themselves once again as one of the top programs in the nation. Unfortunately, its season came to an end two wins shy of the fourth Final Four in school history.
The future continues to look bright for the Cardinal who will return much of its talent from the 2009 season. Bret Simon and his staff will have plenty to build on as the Cardinal prepare for 2010.