Box Score

WASHINGTON, D.C. (9/24/11) – The Colgate men's soccer team dropped its first Patriot League game of the season on Saturday afternoon when it fell to American, 3-0, on the road.

Colgate (5-2-1) created the first attacking opportunity in the first half, with a shot on net that was blocked just 33 second into play. However, as the half progressed, it was the Eagles that were able to find the first goal off a diving header at the 12:27 mark to take an early 1-0 lead. Both teams continued to play hard but it was American that held the shooting advantage, which soon resulted in a penalty kick from an accidental handball on a blocked shot at the 22:23 mark. The Eagles were able to convert the kick and extend their lead to 2-0. The Raiders attempted to turn things around in the closing minutes of the period, but by half time the score remained 2-0 in American's favor.

The team picked up its pace in the second half, firing a series of shots on net but could not get past goalkeeper Matt Makowski. Colgate continued to create majority of the scoring opportunities as the half elapsed, outshooting the Eagles 4-1. However, once again, it was American that was able to find success at the 65:21 mark to put the score at 3-0. Both teams continued to battle it out on the field as the game became more physical, but by the end of 90 minutes of play, it was the Eagles that were able to come out with the 3-0 win.

Goalkeepers Grant Reed and Chris Miller split time in goal, making two saves apiece in the game. American's Makowski had three saves.

"It was a tough day for us," stated head coach Erik Ronning. "We started the game very well, but responded very poorly after giving up the first goal. We had a great opportunity to tie the game in the first half, and to get one back in the second. One of those go in and maybe its a different game. Despite the result of today's game, I know this group will respond well. I must do a better job with our preparation."

The team will resume play next weekend with a Patriot League matchup against Lehigh on Saturday, Oct. 1 at 4 p.m. in Bethlehem, Pa.