University vs. Twinsburg

What: Division III Regional Semifinal

When: 7 p.m., October 30

Where: Streetsboro, 8585 State Route 14

Records: University 11-4-4, Twinsburg 18-2

What’s next: The winner advances to a regional final at noon Nov. 3 against Revere or Westlake in Ravenna.

What to look for: University returns to the regional round with a thrilling six-round shootout victory in a district final over Canfield, following a scoreless stalemate in regulation and overtime. This isn’t the flashiest American team, with some of the generational attackers the Preppers have fielded. But it is an efficient group that knows how to move forward and has developed an off-ball understanding and awareness that has grown throughout the fall. It’s a group loaded with veterans, many of whom have been experiencing their longest time on the field, specifically as starters, for the first time in 2024. On attack are Alex Borden (six goals, three assists), Joe Gilligan (5 -2) and Eric Madureira (5-2). It’s also a capable group in the defensive third, including winger Aaron Moss (0-3), a consistent player who provides leadership, grit and the ability to come in and contribute on serve when needed. Beating Hawken, Mentor, North Canton Hoover and Andrews Osborne and tying North Ridgeville, Hudson WRA and Gilmour shows what this team can do when on form. On the opposite sideline are a handful of teams in Twinsburg, and a familiar foe at that. The Tigers beat the Preppers, 1-0, on September 19. Led by veteran coach Mike Lally, Twinsburg brings a diverse and efficient approach to the attack. The Tigers are on a 14-game unbeaten streak dating to Sept. 7, including defeating News-Herald coverage area standard-bearer Beachwood, their only loss to date, 3-2, on Oct. 10. Leading the line are Lucas Elías (9-19). ), Devin Couch (12-7) and Evan Schneeman (9-7). It feels like a match in which width will play a vital role. The United States will need their best 80 (or more) results of the year, but could push for a result here.