AKRON, Ohio – The Niagara men's soccer team suffered a 1-0 loss to Virginia Commonwealth University at the Akron Tournament hosted by Akron University on Sunday afternoon.

With the loss the Purple and White sends its record to 1-4-0, while VCU improves to 3-1-1.

"We played our best game of the season, and had a chance to knock off a top 25 team," head coach Eric Barnes said.  "We created several dangerous scoring chances, and were unlucky not to put one away."

The Purple Eagles fell behind in the 50th minute of play off a VCU cornerkick by Juan Monge Solano, which was touched by Dennis Castillo before it was put away by Kharlton Belmar. The Purple Eagles were unable to come away with the game-tying goal in the remaining 40 minutes to force overtime.  

"Obviously, I'm not happy with the result, but I am very pleased with the team's effort and performances," added Barnes.  

NU finished the game with two shots, compared to 19 for the Rams.  VCU held a 7-3 corner kicks advantage in the contest.   Niagara sophomore goalkeeper William Banahene finished with six saves in 90 minutes of action for the Purple Eagles. 

Banahene and sophomore midfielder Tim Magnusson  were named to the All-Tournament Team.  

The Purple Eagles take their five-game roadtrip to Moon Township, Pa. on Sept. 20 where NU will face the Robert Morris Colonials.  Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m.