It is not everyday that someone gets the chance for payback. Often in life there are no mulligans, re-dos, or second chances. After two heartbreaking losses to conference power Virginia Wesleyan last year, Guilford’s men’s soccer team has the opportunity to make things right and win. Virginia Wesleyan defeated Guilford 8-0 in regular season play and 2-1 in a hard-fought match during the Old Dominican Athletic Conference (ODAC) tournament last fall.

Revenge is the goal for 2008. The Marlins (1-3) have a target on their backs as Guilford looks to redeem their 0-2 record against Wesleyan from a year ago.

“Last year’s match (in the ODAC tournament) proved that we, despite our record, could compete with any team in the ODAC,” said senior captain Joe Rigert.

The only problem: the Marlins return their leading scorer and ODAC player of the year, Brandon Massie. Massie scored five of his 18 goals against Guilford last season including the overtime winner in the ODAC tournament.

Although the Quakers have no Brandon Massie, the team will rely on hard work and teamwork to guide them past a talented Wesleyan squad. Strong play from key returners such as Scott Meguid and Rigert will be critical for a Quaker win.

Guilford has a new recipe for winning this season. Guilford plans to improve, learning from last season’s woes and moving forward from the early bumps of this season by getting back to the essence of the game, and having fun. By having fun, players hope to become relaxed, which is when their talent is best shown.

“We are a much better team, technically, than we were the last two seasons,” said Coach Bateson. “We have a good mix of upperclassmen and freshmen and are better throughout the entire lineup.”

First-year goalie Pete Truitt is also confident about the team’s ability.

“The freshmen class has a lot to bring to the table and possesses raw, young talent that has the ability to take the program to the next level.”

“Beating Wesleyan would mean a lot to this season, and beating a team of this caliber is the type of win that can turn our season around,” said junior keeper Pat Childs. “It would also be sweet to beat the team that ended our 2007 season.”

The match-up is set for Sept. 24 at 4 p.m. The Quakers have the advantage of playing at home, and they hope their fan support will help them edge their conference rival.

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