Susquehanna University converted an opportunity late in the first half into the only goal of the match as the Crusaders knocked off The University of Scranton, 1-0, in Landmark Conference men’s soccer action at Fitzpatrick Field on Saturday afternoon.

The Crusaders (9-4-1, 3-2 Landmark) scored with 26 seconds left in the first half when senior midfielder Andrew Murphy (Natick, Mass./Natick) headed in a free kick from 30 yards out by senior defender Dean Hristopoulos (West Chester, Pa./Unionville).

Scranton (8-2-3, 1-2 Landmark) pushed forward for most of the second half, but couldn’t find the match-tying goal. The Royals were outshot by the Crusaders, 11-8, despite holding a 6-2 edge in corner kicks. Senior midfielder Bill McGuiness (Forty Fort, Pa./Wyoming Valley West) was the lone Royal to register more than one shot, finishing with two.

The Royals had a handful of promising possessions, but failed to generate any serious scoring chances. A free kick in the closing minute appeared to give Scranton a bit of hope, but Susquehanna avoided the threat when the goalkeeper snagged the kick before any Royal could get his head on the ball.

Freshman goalkeeper Eric Hintz (South Windsor, Conn./South Windsor) made four saves in the loss for the Royals.

Scranton is back in action on Tuesday, Oct. 22, when it hosts Moravian at 3:30 p.m. at Fitzpatrick Field.

--ROYALS--