KENOSHA – On Feb. 13, Carthage Red is ready to shift gears for Week Two of NECC's Division II – West B Rocket League competition. Last Thursday, Armando Hernandez (Mando), Penn Gilchrist (Pixlr), and Alex Vaile (Vaile) defeated the Davenport University Panthers 4-2 in a series that resembled 4th of July fireworks.

The Firebirds outlasted the Panthers despite suffering 50 demolitions, which impacted their ability to survey the field comfortably as a unit. Carthage shot 35% from the field, creating enough scoring opportunities. Alexander led the team with six goals. Penn accumulated the most assists (five) and demolitions (16), while Armando recorded 11 saves, thwarting Davenport's offensive efforts. Carthage Red (1-0, 4-2) launches into Week two with a top ranking in the Division II - West B stage. The Mount Union Purple Raiders are Carthage's next opponent.
 
In Fall 2024 NECC Division II action, the Raiders finished with a 5-2 Overall record and a Game record of 20-15. Mount Union Purple placed third in the East A stage, earning the fifth seed in the East A playoff bracket. On Nov. 11, 2024, the Raiders defeated fourth-seeded Drexel University 4-2 in the quarterfinals. As a result, Mount Union advanced to the semifinals to face top-seeded St. Cloud Saints Gold on Nov. 15, 2024. A lower-bracket appearance followed after a 4-0 loss. On Nov. 21, 2024, the Raiders achieved a 4-0 sweep against seventh-seeded Davenport University White. However, their hopes were dashed by eighth-seed Davenport University Red on Nov. 25, 2024, after a narrow 4-3 loss. Despite some setbacks, Mount Union gained valuable learning experiences. Pittygleege, ThunderRL, and Xanny will aim to challenge Carthage Red.
 
Following Week one's hard-fought victory against Davenport University White, Armando shared insights into his team's approach before the grueling match. "Staying strong mentally…lifting each other up, keeping comms high…basic stuff, nothing too specific," said Armando. Team communication is crucial for a successful Rocket League team. Clear callouts are essential when setting up scoring opportunities against the opponent. The mental aspect is vital, as maintaining a sharp focus on objectives is the best way to ensure a solid performance.
 
Although Carthage Red faced constant momentum swings against Davenport, the Firebirds were shut out 4-0 during a critical game four, tying the series 2-2. While overcoming this feat. Armando credited his team's "super strong mentality. Nothing can get in our heads besides us. We can't put ourselves down. [We] pushed through demos, found weaknesses…felt like they [Davenport] were nervous and made mistakes." This mindset proved effective, as Carthage clinched game five with a 3-2 victory after Armando scored the game-winner. Then, the Firebirds secured game six by a 3-2 score, preventing Davenport from scoring in the last 20 seconds. Heading into Week two, Carthage Red aims to maintain its sharp mentality while keeping communication consistently high.
 
Will Carthage Red reach 2-0 on the season? Tune in here: https://twitch.tv/carthageesports and find out!
 
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