Alfred, NY- The Alfred University men's soccer team fell short in their opening game of the Plattsburgh Cardinal Classic, losing 8-0 to Plattsburgh State on Saturday from the Field House Complex.

The Saxons (0-2) defended a total of 22 shots and six corner kicks.

"Our effort in the first half was poor at best," Head Coach Tracy Blake said. "We played slow and were second to the ball on multiple occasions. There were several errors to cause us to be down by six goals after 33 minutes. In the second half, we played a lot better, but our mistakes were punished by an excellent Plattsburgh State roster."

First-year midfielder Noam Sokolovsky (East Lyme, CT/East Lyme) was responsible for Alfred's lone shot. Sophomore goalkeeper Daniel Koenig (Hopewell Junction, NY/John Jay) picked up four saves.

The Cardinals placed pressure on AU's defense early and often, scoring twice across the first 10 minutes of the opening half. Four more goals from Plattsburgh State put the Saxons in a 6-0 deficit at halftime. Despite cleaner play in the second half from Alfred University, two more goals from Plattsburgh State distanced any chance at a comeback.

"Self-reflection along with accountability is what we need to move forward," Blake said. "We have multiple forwards who are out with injuries, along with several others as well. We'll be hoping for a healthier roster soon."

The Saxons will complete the Plattsburgh Cardinal Classic on Sunday against SUNY Potsdam at 2pm.