The US Merchant Marine Academy defeated Drew University 2-1 in double overtime in Landmark Conference soccer action on Wednesday on a windy and rainy night in Madison, NJ. The Mariners solidified a spot in the Landmark Conference's top four with a 5-2 record, while the Rangers drop to 3-2-1.

Drew came out strong by scoring in the fifth minute on a header by Eduardo Martinez off a corner kick. Only some dramatic saves by USMMA goalkeeper Cory Maier, and a goal line stop by defender Erik Kempinski, kept the Rangers from doing further damage in the first twenty minutes. Kings Point began to fight their way back into the contest but neither team could find the net the rest of the half, and the score remained 1-0 Drew.

USMMA mounted a second half attack, and narrowly missed tying the score as a Gavin Yingling shot struck the post and the rebound was cleared by the diving Drew goalkeeper, Michael Reyes. The ensuing corner kick saw Kempinski head the ball to Dan Weldon, whose shot eluded a wall of defensers to knot the score at one.

Both teams pressed for the game winner, and some acrobatic saves by Maier kept the deadlock at one as the game was sent into extra time.

After a scoreless first overtime period, USMMA's Kyle Arestivo opened the second OT when he dribbled by a Drew defender on the flank and drove a ball across the goal. Yingling streaked through the box and his first time "golden goal" ended the match, and set off a joyous and drenched celebration.

"We came out very slow", commented head coach Michael Smolens. "We were pleased that we kept our composure and got back into the contest. It was an even match under harsh conditions, and we all feel terrific about finishing such a class golden goal to end the match. The guys know we have more work to do on Saturday as a dangerous Scranton team comes to town."

The Mariners finish their regular season on Saturday at 1200 noon on Tomb Field vs Scranton. USMMA will honor its 6 seniors prior to kickoff.