EWING, N.J. – The College of New Jersey men's soccer team defeated Stevens Institute of Technology on Wednesday night by a final score of 2-1. TCNJ improved to 8-2-0 on the season, while Stevens dipped to 6-2-1 on the campaign.

The Lions struck first in the 32^nd minute. Dante Bettino punched in a header off of a corner kick. Kevin Esteves sent in the corner and it curved to Bettino who was in close by the right. Bettino punched it in for his second goal of the season.

Bettino scored again only 37 seconds later. A Stevens defender was trying to pass back to his keeper, yet he did not get enough of the ball and Bettino came flying in to steal it. He bombed it into an empty net from 25 yards out to make it a 2-0 TCNJ advantage.

In the first half, the Lions out-shot the Ducks 6-4.

The Ducks climbed to within one in the 71^st minute. Sean Masur scored after a free kick was sent in close to make it a one goal game.

Stevens was vying for the game tying goal, yet the TCNJ defensive unit did not give in. Lion goalkeeper Daniel Mecadon made a pair of excellent plays to keep TCNJ in front. With about 4:40 to go, Stevens sent in a cross from the right side. It appeared to be heading towards a Duck, yet Mecadon dove and got a piece of it to punch the ball away.

A few seconds later, a header was sent in that had potential to score, yet Mecadon made another diving stop to keep the lead intact. TCNJ was able to hang on the remainder of the game to secure the victory.

Mecadon racked up four saves on the evening. Stevens held the lead in shots 11-8, and TCNJ had the lead in corner kicks 4-2.

The Lion defensive unit of Michael Maltese, Sam Monaco, Timmy Suchora, and Sebastian Leon played well and held the potent Stevens offensive attack at bay.

Next up for the Lions is an NJAC game at Ramapo on Sept. 28. Game time is set for 1:00 p.m.