SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. — The D'Youville University men's soccer team fell to Slippery Rock University by the score of 1-0 Thursday evening in the team's season opener.

The first half saw both teams locked in a defensive battle, as D'Youville's Matthew Solorio made key saves to keep the score level. Jonathan Ghobrial and Ethan Robinson tested the Slippery Rock goalkeeper with attempts on target, though neither found the back of the net. Despite sustained pressure, including a sequence of shots by Frederick Balmforth and Konrad Homberg, the Saints were unable to break the deadlock, concluding the half at 0-0.

The second half began with Slippery Rock taking the lead in the 49th minute as Jimmy Irani scored, assisted by Zsombor Retfalvi and Cornelis Dedecker. Despite the early setback, the Saints responded with a series of offensive attempts, highlighted by shots from Robinson in the 61st minute and Finn Savage at the 82nd minute. While the Saints continued to press forward, their efforts were marked by multiple offside calls and fouls, ultimately leaving the score at 1-0 in favor of the home team by the end of the half.

Solorio recorded three saves while conceding one goal in the match. Ghobrial managed one shot on goal from his single attempt. Homberg led the team with four shots, contributing significantly to the Saints' offensive efforts. Robinson added pressure with three shots during the game.

The next challenge for D'Youville takes them to Pleasantville, N.Y., where they will face Pace University on September 7. The match is set to begin at 2 p.m. as the Saints continue their road schedule.