BEVERLY , MA -- The Utica College men's soccer team jumped out to an early 1-0 lead, but could not hold on, as the Pioneers lost to host Endicott 3-1 Saturday night at Endicott Stadium to wrap up day two of the North Shore Invitational.

Senior forward Shane Ruffing (Rochester, NY/Westborough) broke open a scoreless match with a breakaway ball that he deposited into the back left corner of an open net in the 11^th minute to give Utica an early lead. Junior midfielder Matt Beljan (Bedminster, PA/Christopher Dock) and sophomore midfielder Bita Gazashvili (Tiblisi, Georgia) assisted Ruffing on the play. Ruffing now has two goals on the season and Gazashvili has two assists. 

The Pioneers took that 1-0 advantage to the half, but the margin would not stand as Endicott rode a second half surge behind 12 fired shots. The Gulls celebrated rapid fire goals from senior forward Diego Slobotzky in the 54^th minute (unassisted) followed by a penalty kick goal by senior midfielder Shintaroh Itoh in the 55^th minute to take the lead.

Sophomore forward Diego Maillo added the insurance goal for the Gulls on a header finding the back right corner of the net, with the assist coming on a corner kick feed by sophomore midfielder Brendan McLaughlin to round out the scoring.

Utica goalkeeper Nick Hallett (Adams, NY/South Jefferson CSD) recorded six saves, his second-most so far this season. Matt Beljan (Bedminster, PA/Christopher Dock) and Shane Ruffing (Rochester, NY/Westborough) earned all-tournament team honors for the Pioneers.

The Pioneers return to action back at home on Wednesday when they host SUNY Poly for non-conference action at 5 p.m.