PLATTSBURGH, NY – The Utica College men's soccer team lost to host Plattsburgh State 5-1 in non-conference action on Wednesday night.  Utica's Anthony Fotino (Montgomery, NY/Valley Central) netted his first goal of the season in the 83^rd minutes, off an assist from Michael Bernardo (Bay Shore, NY/Bay Shore), to account for the lone goal of the evening for the Pioneers.

Utica's record moved to 6-8-3 overall headed into a key Empire 8 Conference matchup against visiting Alfred University on Saturday at 4 p.m. If the Pioneers defeat Alfred on Saturday they will earn a spot in the coveted Empire 8 Conference Tournament.

Utica found itself in an early 3-0 hole after 27:47 of play after goals from Plattsburgh's Ian Spear, Nicholas Laurent and Chris Bowden.  Bowden added his second goal of the night before the half to give the home team a 4-0 lead at the intermission. 

Plattsburgh advanced its lead to 5-0 in the 78^th minute when Matt Henning netted his first goal of the season.

Utica freshman Michael Bernardo (Bay Shore, NY/Bay Shore) recorded his first collegiate assist when he found Fotino in the 83^rd minute to sour the Cardinals' bid at a shutout. 

Utica freshman goalie Matthew Milograno (Marcy, NY/Whitesboro) made his first collegiate start in net for Utica and stopped three shots.  Senior goalie David Abdou (Whitesboro, NY/Whitesboro) came on in relief in the second half and fended off five shots for the Pioneers, allowing just one goal. Plattsburgh earned a convincing 29-5 shot advantage on the afternoon.