Men’s soccer team falls to #6 Calvin, 2-1

OLIVET, Mich. – The Olivet College men's soccer fell to Calvin College, 2-1, today in a hard-fought game at the Cutler Athletic Complex in Olivet. The Knights entered the game ranked No. 6 in this week's National Soccer Coaches Association of America Division III Top 25 poll.

"The lads gave their all today against #6 in the nation Calvin," said Olivet head coach Dan Bulley. "For 75 minutes we kept it within one goal with the hope of pinching a goal to level the game."

Calvin led 1-0 at halftime behind a goal by Isky Van Doorne in the 24th minute. The Knights extended their lead to 2-0 on a goal by Bobby McCaw at the 75:02 mark of the game. The Comets netted their goal two and one-half minutes later when junior Gregory Petty found the back of the net.

"Calvin was consistent in its play and the level of quality often showed on quick attacks in transition," said Bulley. "Our backline was resilient and stood tall. We went two down and still found enough to get one back through a wicked delivery into the goal from Greg."

Olivet had just three shots in the game, one each for Petty and freshman Alistair Law and Eli Westers. Senior Ryan Grashik played the first half in goal and made four saves. Freshman Noah Thelen was the keeper for the second half and collected five saves.

The Comets will be on the road for two games next week, beginning Wednesday afternoon with a 4 p.m. game at Trine (Ind.) University.

"We will take many small victories from this game," said Bulley. "Today was a day where the team as a whole turned from boys into men."

NOTES: The goal scored by Petty was only the third one allowed by Calvin this season and the first by an MIAA opponent. Calvin has outscored its opponents 32-3 this season.