Madison, NJ – Freshman forward Danny Vera (Orange County, CA/Mater Dei) scored his first collegiate goal to bring the Hawks to within one goal, but his efforts wouldn't be enough as Hunter comes up short in their opening contest to the Devils of Farleigh Dickinson University2-1 in men's soccer action Saturday in Madison, NJ.

FDU got the early boost from junior midfielder Matt Martone (Neptune, NJ/Neptune) who found the back of the net on a pass from sophomore forward Alex Malcolm (Lafayette, NJ/High Point) eight and half minutes into the first half. Malcolm then netted the game-winning goal a little over nine minutes into the second half. The Hawks had a couple of opportunities at the net towards the end of the second half, but couldn't get one past the Devils keeper.

Senior keeper Jared Drucker (Morristown, NJ/Randolph) earns the victory in his season debut for the Devils, giving up just one goal and making four saves, while junior Noah Fessler (Metuchen, NJ/Metuchen) made 13 saves in net for the Hawks. The Devils out shot the Hawks 31-8, yet were only able to net the two goals.

The Hawks return to action on Monday, September 3, when they head to Throggs Neck, NY to face the Privateers of Maritime College in a 6:00 p.m. non-conference match up.

- Hunter -