(Story courtesy of Trinity University Athletics Communications)
MIDDLEBURY, Vt. -- No. 13 Tiger Men's Soccer falls to No. 11 Babson in the third round of NCAA III Playoffs.
The Tigers (19-1-3, 10-0-1 SCAC) suffered their first loss of the season to Babson College 2-0 in the sweet sixteen round of the NCAA III Playoffs. The Tigers outshot Babson 16-4, 6-2 in shots on goal, including holding the Beavers to zero shots in the first half. Trinity also led the game in corner kicks 10-2. Adam Knutson along with Julian Lopez took three shots and put one on frame. Samuel Theiss led the Tigers with two shots on goal. The Tigers are now 0-1 all time against Babson.
The Rundown
The Tigers came out aggressive early, with Hunter Cain and Lopez creating scoring opportunities within the first 10 minutes of the match. The Trinity defense held firm, disrupting Babson's attacks and reclaiming possession for the maroon and white. In the 32nd minute, Theiss registered the game's first shot on target, aiming for the bottom center of the goal. As the first half wound down, Joey Perryman nearly gave the Tigers the lead, but his shots struck the right post, leaving both teams scoreless at halftime.
Babson came out strong after the break, scoring their first goal within 10 minutes of the second half. Trinity pushed back with Will Powell taking a shot just outside the six-yard box, but Babson's goalkeeper made a crucial save. In the 72nd minute, Babson extended their lead to 2-0. The Tigers fought to stay in the match and earned a penalty kick after being fouled in the box. Louis Instrall stepped up to take it, but his shot hit the left post. He managed to gather the rebound but missed the follow-up wide left. Despite their efforts, the Tigers couldn't find the net, and Babson secured the 2-0 victory.
This marks Trinity's first appearance in the third round of the playoffs since 2017. The Tigers now hold a 48-22-5 all-time record in NCAA Playoff matches.
