DENVER, Colo. (Regency Athletic Complex) - The Colorado State University-Pueblo men's soccer team traveled to Denver Friday to take on Metro State University of Denver, falling 5-1 to the Roadrunners.
Playing to a scoreless tie through most of the first half, MSU Denver struck first in the 35th minute on an corner kick that was misplayed by the Pack defense, resulting in a own goal scored.
At halftime, CSU-Pueblo battled toe-to-toe with the home squad, each earning five corner kicks while the Roadrunners held an 9-8 shot advantage through the first period.
The Roadrunners capitalized on another Pack mishap in the 63rd minute, intercepting the ball after the clear attempt failed, allowing a shot that would hit the post and crossbar, into the net for the 2-0 lead.
"We played okay tonight. I felt we were organized defensively, we just need to work on clearing the ball better," said Pack head coach Roy Stanley.
The ThunderWolves would cut the lead by one when Jonny Sawyer (Sr., Forward, Aurora, Colo.) netted his first goal of the season in the 76th minute, keeping the Pack alive. Matt Marchena (R-Jr., Forward, Littleton, Colo.) was credited with the assist.
MSU Denver took their next possession into Pack territory, firing a shot from a rebound into the back of the net, taking a 3-1 lead.
"Our guys kept their heads up and played through tough circumstances" added Stanley.
Two more Roadrunner goals in the final minutes would put things out of reach for the Pack.
MSU Denver led 28-15 in shots for the game.
Pack goalkeeper Sam Haseltine (R-Jr., St. Louis, MO) made 10 saves on the night.
CSU-Pueblo (4-11, 3-8 RMAC) will next travel to Lakewood, Colo. Sunday, and play at Colorado Christian University. Kickoff is scheduled for 11 a.m. at Trailblazer Stadium.
