Box Score

HAMILTON, N.Y. (11/06/10) – The Colgate men's soccer team won the 2010 Patriot League Regular Season title on Saturday afternoon, when it defeated American 1-0 on Van Doren Field. As the titleholders, the Raiders (8-5-5, 5-0-2 PL) will go into the Patriot League Tournament next weekend as the host and the No. 1 seed.

The first half started off even with both teams sharing ball possession. As the half progressed, it was Colgate that began to attack the net first, creating a series of close attempts. American struck back minutes later, having a few opportunities but were unable to get a shot on goal. The game looked like it would remain scoreless until the 33rd minute when Jeff Leach (New Canaan, Conn.) made a run down the right wing and crossed the ball in front of the goal to Steven Miller (Ivyland, Pa.). Miller, who was sprinting into the middle of the box, slid past his two defenders and knocked the ball into the left corner to give the Raiders the 1-0 lead going into half time.

The Raiders carried their attacking momentum into the second half, take several shots on goal and keeping American's defense under constant pressure. However, as the game continued, the tables turned. The Eagles began to play more aggressive and offensively, forcing the Raiders to play most of the half in their defensive end. But in the end, Colgate's defense proved to be impenetrable, holding off the Eagles and securing its sixth shutout win of the season.

“We battled this afternoon and played very tight defensively.,” stated head coach Erik Ronning. “We must display a similar toughness to have success in our Patriot League semifinal on Friday. Now, every game is a one-game season, and we are excited that we will be playing at home on Van Doren Field in front of our fans.”

Colgate, which ended its regular season with an 8-5-5 overall record, will commence play in the 2010 Patriot League Tournament on Friday, Nov. 12 in the first semifinal game of the tournament. As the No. 1 seed, the team will play against the No .4 seed, which will be determined after tonight's games.