KINGS POINT, N.Y.- The Hunter College men's soccer team was unable to overcome a fast start from United States Merchant Marine Academy on Saturday afternoon, falling 7–0 in a non-conference road matchup.

The Hawks (0-2-1) were tested early and often in the first half, with Merchant Marine breaking through in the 23rd minute and adding two more goals in rapid succession by the 30th. Despite the deficit, Hunter continued to push forward, earning a pair of quality looks late in the half—including a shot on goal by Bejhon Alerte in the 32nd minute and another effort from Georgios Tsiakas that was saved in the 44th.

In the second half, Allan Conway and Fernando Zuvela led the attack with back-to-back opportunities, followed by a blocked shot from Leonardo Kaplan as the Hawks sought to claw their way back into the contest. Freshman Michael Verdov also forced a save in the 88th minute in one of the final sequences of the match.

On the defensive end, Max Tsigalnitsky played the full 90 minutes in goal, registering six saves despite facing 24 total shots—including 13 on goal—from a relentless Merchant Marine offense. The defensive unit of Conor Sullivan, Yassine Jaballah, Zuvela, and Samuel Benson rotated throughout the afternoon, as Hunter looked to stem the tide against a deep opposing bench that produced four second-half goals.

The Hawks recorded six total shots—three on goal—and committed eight fouls, while absorbing seven corners. Despite the lopsided result, the match offered valuable experience for a young Hunter squad that continues to develop its identity under new leadership.

Hunter returns to Randall's Island for a nonconference game against New Jersey City University on Sept. 8. Kick-off is slated for 3:00 p.m.