The Maryland Terrapins opened their season with a narrow 3-2 victory over the New Haven Chargers on Saturday, reversing a recent defeat to the Washington Huskies.
New Haven struck first, with Ali Taleb finding the net in the fourth minute, but the lead was short-lived as Maryland’s defense began to settle.
A Tactical Shift Takes Hold
Midway through the second half, a wild deflection set up Henry Bernstein’s equalizer, and shortly after Dominic Ayella’s precise cross gave the Terps the lead.
Leon Koehl sealed the win with a powerful strike in the 57th minute, capping a sequence that saw Maryland dominate possession and outshoot their opponents 29-5.
The performance also marked the starting debuts of Rocket Ritarita and Ljubomir Popovic, whose speed and defensive solidity added depth to the lineup.
Despite early injuries to Jace Clark and Said El Eyssami, Maryland’s tactical adjustments and depth proved decisive, earning the team its second win of the campaign.