Penalty kicks are the ultimate equalizer.

They can send a talented team home for a long offseason after a tough-fought 110 minutes. They can also turn a freshman keeper into a local hero.

Just ask Jason Stenta.

Last year the wide-eyed freshman keeper made a leaping save in the playoffs to help Binghamton University down rival Boston University.

This year, Stenta is a hardened veteran who is more confident heading into a potential PK situation.

‘Going into PKs, we’re confident scoring them, and I’m confident going out there trying to make a save,’ said Stenta. ‘Hopefully I can stop one, but hopefully it doesn’t go to PKs.’

If Wednesday’s game against UMBC remains tied after two overtimes, Stenta will face off against Retriever keeper Steven King, one of the America East’s top goalies.

In their first round game against Hartford, the Retrievers won in penalty kicks, 5-4, after a 1-1 tie. King did not make a save ‘ one of Hartford’s shots sailed over the goal. Binghamton coach Paul Marco was able to see the match and picked up on some of UMBC’s PK tendencies.

While penalty kicks are nerve-racking for a goalie, Binghamton’s shooters have no fear.

‘I feel really confident going into penalties,’ said striker Cameron Keith with a wide smile.