ALFRED, NY – The Alfred University men's soccer team fell in a tough battle versus fellow Empire 8 opponent, Nazareth College. The Saxons (4-11, 3-2 Empire 8) lost by a 1-0 score to the Golden Flyers.
 
The first half was lacking in offense, as both teams struggled to get any shots on goal. The game went into halftime as a scoreless tie. 
 
Both teams came out of the half more aggressive, launching some shots toward the net. Finally at the 55:19 mark, Nazareth capitalized on a block shot that deflected to Jake Adams, who put the ball into the back of the net to give the Golden Flyers a 1-0 lead. The aggressive defense continued throughout the second half. 
 
Just when it looked as if Nazareth might escape with a stress free road victory, the Saxons were fouled inside the box, giving them a penalty kick opportunity in the 85^thminute but it was not converted. The Golden Flyers would hold off the Saxons for the final minutes and come away with the 1-0 victory. 
 
"Tough loss versus Nazareth," head coach Tracy Blake said. "We really didn't start to play to our potential until we went down 1-0. We had several opportunities to equalize before missing a penalty with four minutes to play. Disappointing result but we know what we must do next week at Sage." 
 
Joe Gonzalez (Marion, NY/Marion) made two saves for AU in 90 minutes of play.
 
The Saxons will face off against Sage next Saturday at 3:30PM in Albany.