TROY, N.Y. - The TCNJ men's soccer team found an early goal and was able to hold on for a 1-0 victory over RPI on Wednesday night.
 
A Bobby Hunter goal assisted by Joseph Schlageter that came in the 27^th minute was the difference maker in the matchup with the Engineers, who were receiving votes in the national preseason poll.
 
Siengsanaoh sent in a free kick from the 40-yard line that Schlageter headed into in the air, and Hunter was able to strike the volley into the back of the net. The assist was the second of Schlageter's career, and Hunter now has a point in five of the last six contests for the Lions.
 
Before and after this goal, the Lions played stellar defense the entire night. Even though the Engineers won the shots battle, 13-9, the back line led by Julian Franco did not allow RPI to sneak back into the game.
 
Franco was sensational, stopping every shot sent his way. He finished with six saves for his first solo shutout this season and the fourth of his career.
 
The Engineers' best chance to tie the game came in the 72^nd minute on a corner kick that an RPI player attempted to head in. However, smart defensive planning by the Lions had David Anderson set up at the post. He leaped into the air, headed the ball out, and his teammates cleared it for him. 
 
The Lions pack up and head back home to start conference play on Saturday against Ramapo at noon.