Box Score

HAMILTON, N.Y. (11/12/10) – The Colgate men's soccer team ended its season today when it fell to Bucknell 1-0 in the first semifinal game of the 2010 Patriot League Tournament on Van Doren Field. Despite outshooting the Bison 16-5, Bucknell was able to score off a fast break to secure the win over the Raiders and progress to the championship game on Sunday.

Colgate started off the game holding majority of the ball possession as the team patiently moved the ball around the midfield. As the half continued, they began to attack the Bison's net, creating a series of opportunities but with no real threats on goal. Bucknell also began to play more aggressively, taking a few shots on goal that were knocked away by Chris Miller (Dallas, Texas) to keep the game tied at 0-0.

After a scoreless first half, both teams were more determined than ever to find the warmth of the first goal. Colgate struck first, creating a couple of opportunities in front of the Bison's goal but was unable to find the back of the net. Feeling the pressure, the Bison returned the favor and were able to find success in the 50th minute when Josh Plump found a hole in the Raiders' defense. He dribbled down the field, beat Miller at the top of the box and slid the ball into the goal to give Bucknell the 1-0 lead.

One goal down, Colgate continued to control the pace of the game throughout the second half and as the clock wound down, began to attack the net aggressively. The Bison began to play a defensive game, putting the entire team behind the ball and forcing the Raiders to adapt a more attacking formation with one extra striker in place of a defender. However, despite all their efforts, Colgate could not find the equalizer they desperately needed, resulting in their final loss of the season.

“We are very disappointed with the result, but I am proud of what this group achieved this season," stated head coach Erik Ronning. “We have nothing to be ashamed of. I would like to thank our five seniors for their contributions to Colgate Soccer over the course of the past four years. They have left this program better than when they arrived.”

The Raiders completed their 2010 season with an 8-6-5 overall record and as the 2010 Patriot League Regular Season champions. Junior Steven Miller (Ivyland, Pa) finished the season as the point leader with 12 off of five goals and two assists. The team also had seven players named the all-league teams as well as the goalkeeper and coach of the year awards.