Cary, N.C. – The Washington men’s soccer team finished off a postseason run on Monday night by taking down North Carolina State 3-2 in overtime to secure the first national title in program history.
The Huskies went up 2-0 before conceding twice in the second half, which sent the game to overtime. The Dawgs only needed 1 minute, 54 seconds in overtime to find the winner, however, as Harrison Bertos sent in the game-winning strike.
“That was a heck of a game and all 10,000 people in attendance got to witness a spectacle,” said head coach Jamie Clark. “And it was a spectacle because NC State didn’t hang their head down 2-0 and they pushed us right to the limit.”
In a tight battle, the two teams were trading blows early and looking for the first breakthrough in the match at First Horizon Stadium. In total, the Huskies launched 13 shots with nine on target against NC State’s 17 shots and seven on frame.
“Credit to them, I thought they were the best team in the country,” added Clark. “So, I thought we were going to have to beat the best team in the final.”
The first goal came in the final minutes of the first half, when Zach Ramsey sent home his second goal of the College Cup to put the Huskies in front. Nick O’Brien fired a shot that was blocked by the NC State keeper on a counterattack and Zach Ramsey pounced to curl in the opening goal.
Coming out of the halftime break, the Huskies kept the pressure on.
Washington doubled the lead in the 62nd minute when Joe Dale poked home an assist from Richie Aman. With the assist, Aman brings his season total to 14, the second-most in a single season in Husky history.
The Wolfpack found two goals in the final 25 minutes of action, but the Huskies wouldn’t be denied the championship.
Less than 120 seconds into overtime, Harrison Bertos connected on the game-winning goal off a pass from Egor Akulov deep in the NC State box. The celebrations were delayed as the goal was checked for offside by video review, but the goal ultimately stood to give Washington its first national championship.
“Our guys did it, they were brilliant tonight,” said Clark. “Going into overtime instead of hanging their heads, they knew there was one moment left to win and they executed.”
Washington had several inspiring efforts in the championship game. The Husky defense was crucial in the victory as Jadon Bowton made five key saves.
Connor Lofy, who was battling a flu over the previous 36 hours and was unable to fuel properly, made his 24th start of the season, one of just four Huskies to start each match.
Kevin Hernandez was a critical sub yet again, featuring in 51 minutes of action.
“I’m proud, excited, and while it may not sound like it, I’m speechless,” said Clark.
The Huskies close the 2025 season with a sixth straight victory, the second time this season Washington rattled off six wins in a row.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
