Washington Secures First National Title with OT Win Against NC State 3-2
In a thrilling championship match, Washington claimed its first national title by defeating NC State 3-2 in overtime. The historic victory occurred on Monday night in Cary, North Carolina, marking a significant milestone for the Huskies’ soccer program.
Match Summary
Washington started strong, taking a 2-0 lead by scoring twice in the first half. However, NC State rallied to tie the game in the second half, sending it into overtime. Just 1:54 into the extra period, Harrison Bertos scored the decisive goal, securing the championship for Washington.
Key Moments
- First Goal: Zach Ramsey scored in the first half, marking his second goal of the College Cup.
- Second Goal: Joe Dale extended the lead in the 62nd minute from an assist by Richie Aman, who now holds the second-most assists in a single season for the Huskies with 14.
- Overtime Winner: Harrison Bertos scored the game-winner with a strong finish off a pass from Egor Akulov.
Game Statistics
| Team | Shots | Shots on Target |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | 13 | 9 |
| NC State | 17 | 7 |
Coach’s Comments
Coach Jamie Clark praised both teams for their performance, highlighting NC State’s resilience even after falling behind. “That was a heck of a game, and all 10,000 people in attendance got to witness a spectacle,” he remarked.
The victory capped off a remarkable postseason run for Washington, who finished the 2025 season with six consecutive wins. This championship triumph is a testament to the hard work and determination of the entire team.
Defensive Standouts
Jadon Bowton made five critical saves, bolstering the Huskies’ defense during the tense moments of the match. Connor Lofy, despite battling illness leading up to the game, continued to be a consistent starter, playing in his 24th match of the season. Kevin Hernandez also played a vital role, contributing 51 minutes of impactful play as a substitute.
After the game, Clark expressed immense pride in his team. “I’m excited and, while it may not sound like it, I’m speechless,” he said, capturing the emotion of a historic victory for Washington’s soccer program.
