NIAGARA UNIV., NY - Despite a first-half red card that put the visiting Marist Red Foxes at a disadvantage for most of the game, the Purple Eagles' men's soccer team could not break through on offense. The only goal of the rain-soaked afternoon came off a penalty kick, as Marist defeated Niagara 1-0 Wednesday at Niagara Field.
 
Marist's Kevin Kappock drew an outright red card and a subsequent ejection in the 22nd minute, giving the Purple Eagles the 11-on-10 advantage for the remainder of the game. The only goal came just 11 minutes later after a handball was called in the Niagara box. Simon Lund Jorgenson lined up for the ensuing penalty kick and beat Joel Gerberich with a low shot far to the goalkeeper's left side.
 
Niagara was outshot 7-6 and outnumbered 3-1 in shots on net in a game where constant rain and gusting winds made for difficult playing conditions throughout the day. Omar Cruz had Niagara's best chance of the first half with an eight-yard shot in tight, but Marist's Mark Rajovic was not to be beaten. Brennan Koslow and Andrew Ferguson led Niagara with two total shots, and each of those players had numerous scoring opportunities to tie the game in the second half.
 
Gerberich relieved Colin Hanley in the first half of Saturday's 5-3 loss at Monmouth, and Wednesday he received his first start for Niagara since Sept. 26. Gerberich made two saves but surrendered the penalty kick goal in the opening 45 minutes, but neither goaltender had to make a save in the second half as no shots were put on goal.
 
Saturday marks the end of the regular season for the Purple Eagles, as they close the week at home against the Fairfield Stags. The game will feature a ceremony of recognition for Senior Day in advance of a 1:00 p.m. start at Niagara Field.

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