BOX SCORE UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. (Sept. 16, 2014) -- Late Tuesday afternoon the Saint Francis U men's soccer team suffered a 3-0 loss to the 10th-ranked team in the country, Penn State University.
 
"I thought we played hard tonight," said head coach Michael Casper. "We pressed well and forced Penn State to turn the ball over pretty often. That being said we need to do a better job in possession once we win it and keep it for a while. I thought Penn State played well and finished their chances when we made mistakes, but I wasn't displeased with our effort. I thought we battled extremely hard and we just have to learn from this and get better.
 
Late in the 25th minute the Nittany Lions (5-0-1) broke the scoreless game with a goal by forward Mikey Minutillo. Minutillo angled a shot off the right post of the SFU (3-3-0) goal, ricocheting past keeper Andrew Garcia (Sicklerville, N.J./Timber Creek Regional). Minutillo's goal was the eventual game-winner.
 
At the break, Penn State led Saint Francis 1-0.
 
SFU held a 5-3 advantage over PSU in first half corner kicks.
 
The Nittany Lions cashed in two quick goals seven minutes into the second half, extending their lead to 3-0. Minutillo scored the first insurance goal, while Brandon Savino netted the second off a defensive miscue.
 
Senior Ryan Byers (Scottdale, Pa./Southmoreland) led the offensive attack for the Red Flash with three shots, one coming on goal. Pablo Medina (Monterrey, Mexico/IMG Academies) attempted two shots for the Frankies.
 
"I also want to thank all the parents, student athletes, and fans that came out tonight," said coach Casper. "We had a lot of support and we are really thankful for that."
 
Saint Francis remains on the road, facing off against George Washington Sept. 20 at 2 p.m.