Following a nail-biting double-overtime victory against Columbia and on the heels of a No. 3 ranking in the Northeast Division by the NSCAA, the men's soccer team is riding high.
It's been four years since the Quakers (7-2-1, 3-0 Ivy) and Scarlet Knights (7-6, 4-4 Big East) last met. In October 2002, Penn came away with a 1-0 victory, increasing its all-time record against Rutgers to 9-4.
Both teams are enjoying successful seasons, and both are coming off of huge weekend overtime wins. And for both teams, tomorrow night's game is going to be a challenge.
Throughout the week, Penn coach Rudy Fuller has been working to ensure that his team will be ready. While the Quakers have been solid at the back throughout the season - having allowed less than a goal per game - senior defender Andy Howard recognizes that Rutgers' strong attack is a cause for concern.
"They have some very good, very talented offensive players, so our idea is staying compact and together."
The Scarlet Knights enter the match on a three-game win streak in which they have outscored their opponents, 9-2. But while Rutgers is above .500 on the year, it is only 1-5 on the road.
Offensively, Penn has continually struggled converting opportunities into goals. Finishing will play a major role in the outcome of tonight's game.
Fuller, who was shocked to hear that it's been nearly four years since the two squads last faced off, believes his team will be well-prepared against the unfamiliar opponent.
"There's not going to be anything new thrown at them; it's just about being sharp and executing," he said. "We know what they're going to bring to the game."
According to Kevin Unger - Philadelphia Soccer Seven player of the week for hi goal against the Lions - the team thrives off the crowd's energy and is happy to play another home game.
"We've had great support from our fans. It helps us, and it makes it easier to play," he said.
The team will enjoy the home support for tonight before continuing Ivy play on the road at Dartmouth. While tonight is a non-league game for Penn, it promises to be an excellent one.
"You have two quality teams," Fuller said. "It should be a fun game to watch."
