NCAA Soccer Trials Nearing; Harvard, Brown Assured Entry

Wesleyan and Massachusetts appear to be the strongest candidates to join Brown and Harvard in the NCAA District I playoffs next month. Wesleyan is ranked second in New England after defeating Springfield, 3-2, and losing to the Crimson, 6-1, last week. Massachusetts is presently undefeated in five starts.

Late in November, the NCAA District I selection committee will extend playoff invitations to four soccer teams. Brown and Harvard will almost assuredly receive invitations because of their history of strong teams. This respect for past record is indicated by the fact that Brown, ranked third, has lost to Springfield (number 4) and has been tied by Yale (number 17).

Massachusetts is a likely candidate because fourth ranked Springfield is a college division team and does not accept post-season university invitations.

Bridgeport, although 6-2, is also a strong selection possibility. The Purple Knights upset Yale and Central Connecticut, a last year's tournament selection, last week.

New England Ratings

Harvard (5-0-0)

Wesleyan (5-1-0)

Brown (3-2-1)

Springfield (5-2-0)

Massachusetts (4-0-1)

Bridgeport (6-2-0)

Williams (4-0-1)

New Haven (7-1-0)

Tufts (5-0-0)

Vermont (5-2-0)