TCNJ Comeback Spoils New Paltz Opener

MADISON, NJ — The New Paltz Hawks relinquished a 2-0 lead in the final 20 minutes as The College of New Jersey scored three second-half goals, including two in the final three minutes of action to win 3-2.

After two first half goals from New Paltz forwards Mario Lavacca (Port Washington, NY) and Chris Sluszka (Walden, NY), the TCNJ Lions mounted their improbable comeback in the second half. The Hawks were whistled for a hand ball in the box at the 70:00 mark, setting up a penalty kick goal from Brian Rostron (Trenton, NJ) for a 2-1 game. Bob Dumas (Winslow, NJ) then scored back-to-back goals from Ryan McMann (Waldwick, NJ) in the 87th and 89th minute for the 3-2 win.

Rich Adams (Neptune, NJ) posted three saves for the 1-0 Lions while Kevin Smith (Niskayuna, NY) registered six.