Goodrum’s goal in OT secures Senior Night win

Erin Howard/The Seahawk

UNCW men’s soccer on Senior Day

Erin Howard, Contributing Writer

Emotions were high as UNC Wilmington celebrated Senior Night in its final regular season game on Saturday. The Seahawks hosted Elon in an exciting match that ended in victory, thanks to an overtime goal from senior Phillip Goodrum.

Before kickoff, all 10 of UNCW’s seniors and their families were honored at midfield. Each player was given a framed jersey.

This senior class now boasts a record of 43-23-8 over their four years.

“You always want to leave the program as good or better than you left it, and they’ve really done that,” said coach Aidan Heaney of the group and the impact they have had. “They’re outstanding students, they’re successful soccer players, champions now. They’re going to leave some big shoes to fill.”

The match was a dog fight throughout the entire 90 minutes of regulation and into both overtimes. Goodrum’s goal came late in the second overtime, off a penalty.

“It’s huge for me, personally, on Senior Night,” said Goodrum of his performance. “I’ve put in a lot of work on this field, so to see it pay off with another big three points and secure a championship, it’s huge.”

This was his fifth goal in 3 games.

“I feel very confident and I feel like I’m helping the team to the best of my ability,” said Goodrum of keeping momentum going into the postseason. “I’ve just got to keep it up.”

The Seahawks move into the CAA Tournament where they will see the winner of William & Mary and Northeastern’s quarterfinal match on Nov. 8. The semifinal will take place on Nov. 10 giving the team a week to prepare. The Seahawks will get the home-field advantage thanks to their regular season title.