NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. – The RMU men's soccer team staged a fierce second-half comeback with three goals but ultimately fell short, suffering a 4-3 loss at Niagara University. The defeat marks the Colonials' first of the season, moving their overall record to 2-1-2.
 
HOW IT HAPPENED
The home side jumped out to an early lead, with Juan Cardona scoring off a corner kick in the sixth minute to give Niagara a 1-0 advantage.
 
The Colonials responded by peppering the net with five shots but were unable to find the equalizer.
 
Niagara took control late in the half, scoring twice more in the 42nd and 45th minutes to take a commanding 3-0 lead into halftime.
 
The Colonials began their comeback in the 70th minute when defender Jaxson Lee headed in a goal off a corner kick. Moments later, in the 75th minute, Jack Bejarano set up Kyle Schueneman at the back post to bring the game within one.
 
Niagara, however, was able to halt RMU's momentum by scoring their fourth goal in the 78th minute.
 
The Colonials scored once more in the final minute of the contest when Kevin Gorbell converted a penalty kick, making it a 4-3 game.
 
INSIDE THE BOX SCORE
Niagara outshot RMU 15-10, though both teams recorded seven shots on goal. The Purple Eagles also received six corner kicks compared to RMU's two. Goalkeeper Josh Lane made three saves. Kevin Gorbell was the only Colonial to play the full 90 minutes.
 
COLONIAL FIRSTS
Two defenders for the Colonials scored their first career goals. Boca Raton, Fla. native Kevin Gorbell scored from the penalty spot, bringing his season total to one goal and one assist. Oklahoma City, Okla. native Jaxson Lee headed in his first collegiate goal.
 
UP NEXT
RMU will now begin Horizon League play, hosting Detroit Mercy at the North Athletic Complex. The game is scheduled for Saturday, September 13, at 2:00 PM.
 
Follow The Colonials: Facebook | X | Instagram | TikTok | LinkedIn | RMU Athletics Gameday App