[BIG EAST] Englishman Jack Bennett‘s golden goal, his fifth game-winner of the season, on a breakaway in the 96th minutegave No. 21 St. John’s a 1-0 victory over No. 3 Connecticut, 1-0, in the Big East final before 2,178 fans at Red Bull Arena.
Bennett, a JC transfer from Tyler Junior College,single-handedly won the game for the Red Storm, picking off the ball from Big East Defensive Player of the Year Andrew Jean-Baptiste, dribbling quickly intowards goal and scoring from 12 yards out.
“We knew this would be a battle,” said Red Storm coach Dr. Dave Masur. Connecticut is very well-coachedteam and an extremely tough opponent, but we have prepared all season for this opportunity. Our guys were focused and did not let up throughout the entire game and that was the difference today; aplay from Jack [Bennett] that was all hustle and determination. We are thrilled and obviously it feels fantastic to end up as the champions.”
Bennett, who had four assists in the RedStorm’s earlier wins in the Big East Tournament, was named the tournament’s top offensive player.
He was joined on the all-tournament team by Villanova’s Kyle Soroka and Louisville’s Nick DeLeon, along with teammates Walter Hines,