Madison, NJ – The State University of New York at New Paltz men's soccer team opened up its 2019 season with a 1-0 win over Stockton University Friday in the opening round of the Drew Fall Festival.

The Hawks (1-0) played 82 scoreless minutes with the Osprey's, which totaled 12 shots and just five on target between the two teams before James Maltes found the back of the net after being in the right place at the right time, getting a touch on a ball played in Kevin Doorley. SUNY New Paltz held the Ospreys from there to cling onto its first win of the season. 
"We definitely grinded it out," said Hawks coach Kyle Clancy. "Credit to Stockton for a great second half and keeping us pinned in, but our guys worked hard and defended extremely well."

There was only six shots combined in the first 45 minutes of action with SUNY New Paltz having more chances, out-shooting Stockton, 4-2. The Hawks had a couple chances inside the Osprey's box, but couldn't earn the lead before heading into halftime.

The Osprey's stepped up in the second half and challenged the Hawks, as both teams tallied four shots on net with SUNY New Paltz goalie Marc DePasquale registering his only two saves of the game in the second half.

"First half we possessed much better and just looked a bit sharper, so hopefully we can replicate that over 90 minutes tomorrow," Clancy said.

Despite the pressure from Stockton, SUNY New Paltz earned the lead with about seven minutes left in regulation, as Maltes scored his second career goal. Both Doorley and senior center back Luke Dole was credited with the assist on the play.

"A true poacher's goal," Clancy said. "Ball was flicked back post, and he was in the right spot to place it home. A nice composed finish."
Overall, SUNY New Paltz out-shot the Osprey's 8-6, while each team earned three corners in the game.

With the win, the Hawks place themselves in the championship game of the Drew Fall Festival against the hosting Rangers. The game is scheduled for 1 p.m. Saturday.

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