BROOKLYN, N.Y. - The LIU Brooklyn men's soccer team was picked to finish eighth in the Northeast Conference Preseason Coaches Poll, it was announced by the league Tuesday.
Central Connecticut was picked to win the NEC championship and earned three first-place votes, followed by Fairleigh Dickinson and Saint Francis U in second.
The Blackbirds return 15 players from the 2013 squad, including nine seniors, and bring in eight newcomers. Last season, LIU went 5-10-2 overall, while finishing in a tie for fifth in the conference standings.
Junior midfielder Tanner Sica earned a spot on the All-NEC Second Team in 2013, while senior Brice Merwine led the squad with seven points on two goals and three assists. A trio of seniors—Matt Mummert, Jacob Smith and Andre LeBlanc—will lead the defense. Also returning is sophomore goalkeeper Logan Keys, who ranked third in the NEC in save percentage.
The Blackbirds kick off the season on Friday, Aug. 29 when they travel to Maryland to take on UMBC. Game time is set for 7:00 p.m.
2014 Northeast Conference Men's Soccer Preseason Coaches Poll
1. Central Connecticut (3)
2. Fairleigh Dickinson (2)
Saint Francis U.
4. Bryant (1)
5. St. Francis Brooklyn (2)
6. Robert Morris
7. Sacred Heart
8. LIU Brooklyn