Madison, NJ — The State University of New York at New Paltz competed in the Drew Fall Festival on the campus of FDU-Florham Friday, coming from behind to earn a 2-1 win to open up its 2023 season.
 
The Rangers took a one-goal lead in the 21st minute, but the Hawks continued earning opportunities on the offensive end, conjuring five corners in the first half including three in the final three minutes.
 
Kieran Weber had the best look for SUNY New Paltz, firing a shot toward the far side of the net, but Drew goalie Brandon Jachera made the stop leading to another corner. Thomas O'Neill had a look on frame but was deflected by a defender leading to another corner. Drew withstood the consecutive set pieces and didn't allow another shot for the remainder of the half to go into the break with a 1-0 lead.
 
"We got off to a slow start, struggled a bit winning both first and second ball and covering the space in behind," said Hawks coach Kyle Clancy. "We just looked second best a lot for most of the first half, but the second we subbed in, guys had a massive impact and helped us gain some momentum. That group stayed on to start the second half and with a high press, we took control."
 
After Drew earned a penalty, which SUNY New Paltz goalie Christian Micheli saved to preserve the score, the Hawks tied up the match in the 68th minute as Joseph DiPreta buried a penalty after a foul in the box by Jachera led to a penalty kick opportunity for the Hawks who quickly doubled down and found the back of the net five minutes later.
 
"They earned a PK against run of play, but Christian made a huge save and from there, we took control of the game, pressing well, winning every ball and possessing very well," Clancy said.
 
DiPreta scored once again, coming in the 77th minute which proved as the game-winner with the Hawks defense holding strong for the remainder of the game, not giving up a shot in the final 12 minutes.
 
The Hawks out-shot the Rangers, 10-5 in the match, including 5-2 in shots on target and totaled six corners to just two for Drew. Christian Micheli made one save, which came on a penalty kick.
 
"Two well-earned goals, and even though neither came in the run of play, we created several good chances and hope to build off that Sunday," Clancy added. "I'm really proud of how the team responded and the relentless effort they showed in the second half. Just a great team win."
 
SUNY New Paltz is back in action Sunday, heading back to Madison, NJ, this time on the campus of Drew University to face Saint Elizabeth University at 3:30 p.m. to conclude the Drew Fall Festival Tournament.

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