HANOVER, N.H. – Despite a strong effort, the Niagara men's soccer team couldn't overcome a quick start and a sound finish in the first half by Dartmouth in the teams' meeting on Saturday night. The Purple Eagles got a second half goal from Rodrigo Almeida, but it wasn't enough as the team dropped a 7-1 decision to the Big Green.
 
Match Moments

• 28' – Trailing by three, Rafael Freitas got the team's first shot on net off a set piece from 35 yards out. Freitas put the ball on target but had it deflected away for a corner kick.
• 35' – Another Niagara free kick gave the Purple Eagles another chance to pressure Dartmouth, but Stephen Hasse's bullet sailed to the right of the net.
• 76' – With another set piece coming to the immediate left of the Big Green goalkeeper, the Purple Eagles' front line managed to get the ball in tight, keep it close, then hammer it home to nullify Dartmouth's clean sheet. Almeida's team-high third goal of the season made it a 5-1 game.
• 86' – Matthew Krucko-Moeller took a free kick outside the box after a tough tackle drew a yellow against Dartmouth. Krucko-Moeller's delivery curled around the wall but was swallowed up by the keeper, denying a rebound chance for the swarming Purple Eagle attack.

 
Coach's Corner

• Head coach Bill Boyle: "This was a game where every mistake seemed to cost us. After they scored on their first opportunity we failed to respond. We have to stay focused on what we do well and stop conceding. We will defend better and it starts with me and my staff making everyone's role clearly defined."

 
Up Next

• A home date with longtime rival St. Bonaventure is up next for the Purple Eagles. The Bonnies and Niagara will kick things off at 7 p.m. on Tuesday from Niagara Field.

 
 
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