The Berkeley College New Jersey men's soccer team kicked-off its 2016 season on Thursday afternoon against Lebanon Valley College in Annville, PA. Despite putting forth a valiant effort, the Knights came up short, falling to the Dutchmen by a score of 2-1.
Neither squad was able to tally a goal in the opening 45 minutes of action. Lebanon Valley College had multiple opportunities to get on the scoreboard, as Riley Katshir broke through on a number of free kicks, though he wasn't able to bury any of his attempted headers.
Early in the second half, the Dutchmen broke the scoreless tie, as Matt Prince received a beautiful lead pass from Rob Hanosek before zipping the ball past Knights goaltender Robert Parker to give his team a 1-0 advantage. 19 minutes and 32 seconds later, Lebanon Valley added another goal when Tyler Skye got behind the defenders and created a breakaway opportunity for himself. He took advantage, using a fancy move to beat Parker left side to give the Dutchmen a 2-0 lead.
The Knights wouldn't go quietly, however, as in the 81st minute, Berkeley College was awarded a penalty kick due to a foul in the box and veteran Wender Lima knocked a ball past Lebanon Valley netminder Cam Avery to pull his team to within a goal at 2-1. The Dutchmen, however, were able to fend off the Knights' late push, eventually solidyfing a one-goal victory.
The Dutchmen held a 16-8 edge in the shots department, while the Knights had nine corner-kick opportunities compared to six for Lebanon Valley College. Berkeley College's Robert Parker hung tough in net, making five saves despite allowing the two goals. Dutchmen goalkeeper Cam Avery stopped three shots while allowing just the one tally.
Berkeley College will return to action with a pair of games this weekend. The Knights will take on Washington Adventist Saturday evening in a late 8:00pm contest, before heading to Front Royal, VA to battle Christendom on Sunday afternoon.
