After facing a tough stretch with losses against Nazareth University and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, the Oswego men’s soccer team was eager to get back on track. Last Saturday at the Laker Turf Stadium, they took on the SUNY Potsdam Bears, a match that held a lot of meaning for them. It was Oswego’s first game in the conference this season, and it was also a special day because it was their Alumni Day. 

The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement, everyone hoping for a win that would not only be a turning point for this season but also a nod to all the players who came before. The team knew how important this game was and were determined to give it their all to come out on top.

As the game kicked off, the SUNY Potsdam Bears presented a solid 3-3-1 record, making it clear that they would not be an easy opponent for the Lakers. But from the get-go, it was obvious that Oswego was hungry for a win. They came out swinging, peppering the goal with six shots in the first 18 minutes.

Then, at about the 30-minute mark, the Lakers’ determination paid off in a beautiful play. Senior Kyle Gehnrich set up a perfect free kick that found the head of junior Kyle Hanner, resulting in Hanner’s first goal of the season. What’s even more impressive is that this marked Gehnrich’s third assist of the season already.

When the final whistle blew, the score stood at 1-0 in favor of Oswego. The Lakers had been relentless, taking an impressive 20 shots in total, with eight of them on target. And let’s not forget the solid defense – they kept the Bears to just five shots throughout the game. Four of those shots were on target, but sophomore goalie Andre Bourjolly stepped up, saving all four.

All in all, it was a fantastic start for the Lakers in the SUNYAC conference. They showed both an impressive offensive push and a steadfast defense, setting a strong tone for what’s to come this season. This win isn’t just a victory; it’s a statement of intent. The Lakers are ready to make their mark in the conference. 

On Sept. 27 however, the Lakers took on their next SUNYAC opponent in SUNY Brockport once again at home at the Laker Turf Stadium. This game was all about the offense on both sides. Just nine minutes in, Brockport’s Giovanni Cardona snuck past the Laker defense and netted the first goal of the game making it 1-0. 

The Lakers were not swayed, as just six minutes later a run made by Oswego’s Jason Wuytack was all that was needed as he threaded a pass right to Kieran Gilroy who scored making the score 1-1. After that it was a back and forth match up as both teams traded shots for the majority of the first half. But at the 38-minute mark the momentum shifted as Brockport striker Russ Domm scored unassisted and the Lakers went down 2-1 at the half. 

Throughout the majority of the second half, the score remained the same. Both teams put up shots but neither could capitalize until late. At the 83 minute mark the Lakers’ defense allowed a second goal by Russ Domm assisted by Brady Reinagel making the score 3-1. 

The Lakers did not go down without a fight though, as six minutes later at the 89-minute mark Kieran Gilroy netted his third goal of the season making the game 3-2 now leads the team in goals scored. Unfortunately the game ended 3-2 Brockport but it was a hard-fought game nonetheless. 

As of right now, the Lakers record is 2-3-3. In conference they’re 1-1 with those two games being their most recent ones. Their next two games are also in conference, first with an away game on Saturday, Sept. 30 against SUNY Plattsburgh. Then they travel to SUNY Fredonia on Oct. 4. Both games are crucial for conference standings and the Lakers will be well prepared. 

Photo via: Oswego Athletics