Mercer Rallies Late To Defeat Stetson in A-Sun Tournament
November 11, 2004

Macon, Ga. -- Andrew Jones scored the game-winner with 1:07 remaining in the second overtime as third-seed Mercer defeated sixth-seed Stetson 3-2 Thursday night in the quarterfinals of the 2004 Atlantic Sun Conference Championship at Bear Field.

Stetson was eliminated and finished the season with a 10-7-1 record.? Mercer (11-8) advances to play Florida Atlantic in the semifinals on Friday.

The Hatters were 11 seconds away from winning in regulation when Ben Ragan tied the game for the Bears.? Goalkeeper Martin Walker moved into an attack position and assisted on Ragan's tying goal.

Stetson played a man short throughout most of the second half and all of overtime following two quick yellow cards issued to John Alexander.? Nevertheless, the Hatters took a 2-1 lead on Osborne's ninth goal of the season in the 63rd minute, and nearly made the lead hold up.

"I am very proud of the way we played," Hatter head coach Sean Murphy said.? "We battled and showed a lot of class.? It is unfortunate to play with so much heart and character and end up losing the game.? It is a tough loss to take."

Alexander gave the Hatters a 1-0 lead in the fifth minute.? The Bears tied the game on a goal by Mark McKeever in the 27th minute.

Both teams took 13 shots for the match.? The game had 50 fouls and nine yellow cards issued.

Stetson reached the 10-win mark in 2004 for the sixth time in school history.