The New Paltz men’s soccer team suffered a close 3-2 loss to the Potsdam Bears Saturday Oct. 8. They started the game strong with an edge in both shots on frame and possession. The first half ended at New Paltz leading two-nil, with goals scored by fourth-year students Michael Santalesa and Tommy Garafola.
However, the lead slipped out of their grasps once the second half started.
Within minutes of the second half whistle, Potsdam midfielder A.J. Ramirez scored.
Less then 15 minutes later, forward Stephen Auyer hit the netting of the upper 90 with an uncontested shot, scoring and tying up the game 2-2.
In the last minutes of the game, on a desperation counter attack, Potsdam won a pivotal corner kick.
Defenseman Victor Colasacco scored on the set-piece taken by Potsdam forward Eduardo Figueroa.
The game was emotional and hard fought, as the figurative jostling for position in the SUNYAC’s became tangible.
Yellow cards were issued to members of the Potsdam team, while more were probably deserved for both squads, a common theme for the Hawks this season.
Both goalkeepers took a beating in the second half, with Potsdam goalkeeper, Joe Glackin recording 7 saves.
The next men’s soccer game is Oct. 15 at 1 p.m. against SUNY Oneonta.