Hawks Fall In Men’s Soccer Opener

ERIE, PA. — A defensive handball in the mouth of the goal led to a 1-0 halftime lead, as host Penn State Behrend held off SUNY New Paltz, 3-2, in both team’s men’s soccer opener on Friday at the Herb Lauffer Memorial Tournament.

Vinny Tiberia was ejected in the 40th minute after handling a ball in the goal area, causing the (0-1) Hawks to play a man down the rest of the way. Penn State Behrend’s David Kowalczyk then scored the first of his two goals off a rebound of the ensuing penalty kick, which was initially saved by New Paltz goalkeeper Kevin Smith, but became loose.

Just after halftime, New Paltz senior forward John Baker tied the score on a feed from freshman Arlington High product John D’Eredita. But Kowalczyk put the (1-0) Lions ahead again – this time for good – 13 minutes later, and teammate Mark Szewczykowski added a crucial insurance goal in the 73rd minute, which kept Stephen Ferrara’s goal in the 78th minute from tying the game.

Meanwhile, Kevin Smith, last year’s All-SUNYAC First Team goalkeeper as a freshman, made six saves to help keep New Paltz close.

New Paltz will face the loser of Friday’s Hiram/Hobart matchup in Saturday’s 1 p.m. consolation contest.

COLLEGIATE MEN’S SOCCER

Penn State Behrend 3, New Paltz 2

New Paltz 0 2 — 2 Penn State Behrend 1 2 — 3

First Half: PSB – David Kowalczyk (penalty kick) 40th minute. Second Half: NP – John Baker (John D’Eredita) 49th minute; PSB – David Kowalczyk (Aaron Pentz) 62nd minute; PSB – Mark Szewczykowski (Joe Herrmann) 73rd minute; NP – Stephen Ferrara (penalty kick) 78th minute. Shots on Goal: NP 7, PSB 9. Corner Kicks: NP 9, PSB 3. Goalie Saves: NP (Kevin Smith) 6, PSB (Tom Seig) 5. Team Records: New Paltz 0-1-0, Penn State Behrend 1-0-0.