Ok. Big match up for both teams. #20 Rowan takes on the Falcons of Messiah.

Two teams with different styles. Rowan has been doing well and showing they can compete against anyone. Messiah has struggled and for the first time since I started the SC Top 25, Messiah is not a part of it.

Messiah needs to get a handle on the ball and not be careless with it if they want a chance at this game. The Profs like to press which could make it difficult on Messiah. Dickinson did the same to them and they struggled to keep control the way Messiah likes.

Rowan trying to build out of the back but Messiah is pressing with its two forwards. They are making it very difficult on Rowan. Not a lot of space since Messiah closes it down pretty quickly. Rowan tries to do the same, and Messiah has to be careful. First real opportunity for Rowan is from a bad Messiah touch that leads to a counter an a shot that is blocked by the Keeper then cleared out for a throw in.

And in a similar play, Messiah surrenders the ball. Rowan recovers and from 24 yards out, the Rowan player hits a ball that goes far upper corner where the Messiah keeper can't reach. Great shot for the go ahead goal.

What a shot. On the replay it looks like the @Rowan keeper wasn't ready because he looks surprised and dives late.

1-0 Rowan.

35 minutes left in the half.

Quite the blow for Messiah as they looked like they were trying to find their rhythm. Rowan took advantage what seemed to be a half chance and got the go ahead goal. Messiah is looking to get back in the game and are trying to control the tempo now. As crazy as it sounds, Messiah just needs to play the way they like and the goal will come. They can't let themselves get frustrated so early in the game. Plenty of time.

Rowan needs to get a handle on the ball. Since scoring they letting Messiah have the ball and dictate play.

25 minutes left in the half.

Based on what I am seeing, Rowan will get second. Question is can Messiah get the tying goal first. Not sure they are creating enough in front of goal that could lead to a goal. On the other hand, when Rowan goes into the final third, they look like something can happen. Not sure Messiah has figured out the attack.

Messiah has had more of the possession, but it isn't very productive. Rowan hasn't had much of the ball, but really break out quickly when they do win the ball, putting pressure on the Messiah back line.

And halftime. Rowan up, 1-0.

I could see this score staying this way until the end.

SC.