Adler's Goal Keeps Cougars' Postseason Ride Rolling Along

Soccer coaches often tell their players to simply put the ball on net, even if they don’t have the best angle, because something good can happen as a result.

With the Cherry Hill East boys’ soccer team’s season on the line, Andrew Adler did exactly that, and the result was soccer’s equivalent of a walk-off.

Addler fired in a ball from about 30 yards out and by the far sideline that found its way past the keeper and into the net with six minutes and 15 seconds left in second overtime, sending the No. 13 Cougars to a 2-1 victory over No. 6 Eastern in the NJSIAA South Jersey, Group 4 quarterfinals.

The ball played in by Adler was part shot and part cross, but added up to 100 percent jubilation for East.

“I don’t want to end the season now, I want to keep going and play as long as we can,” said Adler. “To win the Coaches Tournament and then do this well in sectionals is just so much fun.”

Adler’s game winner seemed to come out of nowhere as Eastern was having the run of the play in overtime. Eastern was possessing the ball more, while creating several quality scoring chances. With each Eastern attack, goalie Steve Oberlander and his defense were put to the test and each time, they succeeded in defending their net.

“We had a few opportunities early, and we knew if we could get a few more opportunities eventually one of them would have to go in,” Oberlander said. “We just kept trying to hold them back because they have good strikers. We knew they were going to be tough.”

East has gained a reputation for being an "defend first" team and the approach has carried them well in the postseason.

“Our motto is nine players behind the ball, and if we do that, we feel as though it will be very difficult for the opposing team to score,” said Zach Steinbock. “Off of the nine players behind the ball, we play a counter-attacking offense when we get a steal. We know they will be pressuring us relentless, but we just wanted to play our game and stick to our game plan.”

As for the goal, Oberlander said he didn’t even get a clear view of the drama, as he was winded after making a save on the other end.

“It was so quick I don’t even remember it,” said Oberlander. “I was still regaining my breath after having to run out on the play before. I didn’t even run down the field (after the goal), I just fell back.”

Steinbock staked the Cougars to a 1-0 lead when he converted a penalty kick with 33:11 left in the second half. The goal was set up by a corner kick that found its way to Matt Muench, who was fouled trying to gain control of the ball. Steinbock was summoned to take the kick, and calmly placed it to the right of a diving keeper.

“Coach said that I would be taking a PK if I had one in regulation, and I have been practicing them all the time,” Steinbock said. “It’s just routine for me.”

Eastern was able to draw even thanks to some beautiful passing that culminated in a goal by Scott Gillman. The Eastern striker was set up perfectly in the center of the pitch by some nifty passing by midfielder Alain Beown.

The game was chippy throughout, walking the thin line between hard aggressive soccer and dirty play. It was no surprise, considering the teams met twice in the regular season—both games won by Eastern—and referees often allow a little more physical play in the postseason.

The Cougars are now on to the semifinals against an opponent and at a date to be determined. Regardless of the competition, East players feel destined to keep this magical run going.  

“It seems like it gets better each time,” said Steinbock. “I can’t believe that went in. It’s a feeling that is hard to explain in words.”