CARY, N.C. — Maximilian Kissel provided a thrilling finish by scoring in sudden-death overtime, leading Vermont to a 2-1 victory over Marshall on Monday night, marking the program’s first national championship.
The match was notable for being the ninth championship game of the 21st century to be decided by either overtime or penalty kicks.
With this victory, Vermont (16-2-6) accomplished what no other team at the school has achieved in a team sport, as they clinched their first national title. Previously, only the skiing program had seen championship success, boasting six national titles. Additionally, the Catamounts became the first team from the America East Conference to reach a national title match in a team sport.
On the other side, Marshall (15-2-7) was aiming to secure its second national championship following its triumph in the 2020 College Cup.
Kissel made a decisive play by racing to a long ball that soared over the defense along the right sideline. He expertly headed it forward as defender Alex Bamford tumbled to the ground. With Marshall goalkeeper Aleksa Janjic charging out of his box, Kissel maneuvered to his left and fired a shot into an empty net. In his excitement, he tore off his jersey and raced towards the corner flag to celebrate with his teammates.
This goal marked Vermont’s 16th goal this season occurring in the 83rd minute or later, illustrating their penchant for late-game heroics.
Earlier in the match, Marcell Papp had leveled the score at 1-1 in the 81st minute, linking up with David Ismail after a turnover by Marshall deep in their territory.
Kissel nearly gave Vermont the lead earlier when he broke away in the 85th minute, skillfully cutting back on a defender in the box, but Janjic made a crucial dive to deflect the shot just wide of the post.
Janji? also showcased his goalkeeping skills with a remarkable save against Ismail during a one-on-one breakaway midway through the first half.
Marshall grabbed the lead in the 57th minute when Tarik Pannholzer scored his third goal of the season, all during the NCAA Tournament, capitalizing on a rebound after goaltender Niklas Herceg had initially disrupted a cross from Rai Pinto.
Despite Marshall’s lead, Herceg played a pivotal role in keeping the game close, denying Haruhi Taneda’s attempt from close range in the 78th minute.