Nardone, Marfino Lead Vikings Past Skylanders in Region 19 Semifinal

Toms River, NJ - The #6 Ocean County College men's soccer team upset #3 Sussex County CC, executing a thrilling come-from-behind 2-1 win in the NJCAA Region 19 Semifinal on Tuesday (10/29).

After a hard fought first half, the Skylanders struck first in the 60th minute, when Luke Anderson scored to put Sussex in the lead. However, just ten minutes later, the Vikings captured the equalizer, with a delivery by Chase Norling, headed on by Jayson Nardone and finished by Julian Marfino. Following just seven minutes later, Adal Garcia slotted a precision pass in to Jayson Nardone who beat the sprawling Sussex GK to notch his 14th goal of the season and give the Vikings the lead for good.

The Viking defense led by center backs Jack Eubanks and Owen Elliott, outside backs Ethan Riley and Chase Norling, and GK Brett Leschinski were outstanding throughout the match and in particular in the closing minutes to seal the victory for the Vikings.

In addition, the Viking midfield, led by team captain Alex Baginski, was industrious, productive, and well organized throughout the match.

Ocean now faces Raritan Valley CC on Saturday, November 2 at 11 A.M. at Ocean County College Stadium in the Region 19 B District Final, with the winner earning a bid to the NJCAA National Championship Tournament.