ALBANY, NY – The Alfred University men's soccer team gave up goals in both halves in Empire 8 action on Saturday against Russell Sage College.
 
The Saxons (3-7-3, 1-4-2 Empire 8) were led by the efforts of their keeper, Jon Nadolne (Port Washington, NY/Albertson ECNL) as he made seven saves in goal including a penalty kick save.
 
Both goals scored by the Gators (7-4-2, 4-1-0 Empire 8) came from short distance. Nathan Powell scored what proved to be the game-winner off a bouncing ball from Ian Maguire in the 25^th minute of play. Christian Vaalstuen shot once in the 87^th minute of play with Nadolne saving the first shot, but Vaalstuen recovered the ricochet and pushed it back for the 2-0 score.
 
The Saxons out-shot the Gators in the first half, 7-4 as both had three on target in the first 45 minutes. Russell Sage had the advantage in the second half, 10-4 in shots while AU had more on goal, 4-3 in the final period. The Gators had the slight advantage in corner kicks, 5-4 but committed more fouls on the day, 15-12.

"The team played very well throughout the game however we didn't defend one throw-in that bounced in our penalty box and Sage punished us," Head Coach Tracy Blake said. "The second half, we again challenged really well and changed our line up to get the goal. Unfortunately a missed placed pass caused Sage to score the second late in the game."
 
Joaquin Ghioldi-Acosta (Los Angeles, CA/The Waverly School) led the Saxon offense with all three of his shots being on goal.
 
The Saxons will next host Hartwick College on Saturday, October 22 for a 3:00pm Senior Day, Empire 8 matchup.