Akron men lose to Cleveland State

CLEVELAND - For the first time since 2008, The No. 1 University of Akron men's soccer team was defeated during the regular run of play, suffering a 2-1 setback at Cleveland State Saturday afternoon at Krenzler Field.

The loss was the first of the year for the Zips, who fell to 14-1-1 overall, and their first on the road during the regular season since a 1-0 defeat at New Mexico on Sept. 12, 2008.

"Cleveland State wanted it more today," said UA head coach Caleb Porter. "We didn't show up and we didn't do any of the things we have done to win so many games over the last several years. Winning is a byproduct of doing things right and we didn't do things right today. Our normal approach and mentality weren't there for whatever reason and now we have to suffer the consequences of losing and feel the disappointment that goes along with it."

The Vikings (8-9-0) scored two second-half goals in a six-minute span to pull off the upset on a gray, windy day in front of 1,679 fans. CSU's Jordan Hart delivered the decisive blow in the 85th minute, just two minutes after Michael Nanchoff had pulled the Zips even with a penalty kick.

Akron's bid for a second consecutive unbeaten regular season season ended despite doubling up Cleveland State on shots, 12-6.

"Looking at the big picture, this might be exactly what we needed to get ready for the postseason," Porter said. "But it will depend on how this team responds and what they learned today. Our goals are still ahead of us and the next game against Michigan State (Wednesday) will show just how hungry we are to achieve them. It's time for everyone to take ownership now. Not just a couple guys but everyone for every game from here on out.

"If that happens, I'm confident no one can stop us from getting where we want to go. I'm looking forward to seeing how bad they want it and what everyone will do to contribute as we enter the most important phase of the season."

The Zips had a number of scoring chances in the first half but couldn't find the net against a Vikings team that was firmly entrenched into their third of the field.

Anthony Ampaipitakwong had UA's first scoring opportunity in the 10th minute with a mid-range strike from straight on that was stopped by CSU goalkeeper Brad Stuver, who finished with five saves.

Stuver was there to make another save in the 19th minute, thwarting a well-orchestrated sequence that saw Darlington Nagbe split two defenders and leave the ball for Darren Mattocks. Mattocks, who was streaking down the middle of the field, and Stuver, who came off his line, both converged on the ball. In the end, Stuver slid in and smothered Mattocks' chip shot.   

Nagbe found Mattocks again on the right wing in the 31st minute. The Jamaican striker, who was one-on-one with the keeper, attempted to go far post but his blast sailed wide left.

It was a much more balanced second half with both teams threatening to score. Cleveland State, which was noticeably gaining confidence as the scoreless match continued, finally got on the board in the 79th minute when Caleb Eastham crossed the ball to Aslinn Rodas, who scored from 18 yards.

The Zips' three-game road swing continues at No. 23 Michigan State Wednesday. The Zips and Spartans will kick off at 3 p.m.