EASTON, Pa. – Senior midfielder Max Benford scored the first goal of his collegiate career, but the Holy Cross men's soccer team was defeated by No. 24 Lafayette 2-1 at Oaks Stadium in the semifinals of the Patriot League Tournament. The Crusaders conclude the season at 2-2 overall, while the Leopards improve to 7-0 on the year and move on to face American in the Patriot League championship game.

Lafayette opened the scoring in the 21st minute when Andrew Venezia scored on a free kick from 30 yards out. The Leopards then increased their lead to 2-0 in the 73rd minute when Max Ippolito found the net with a 20-yard blast on a counter attack. Holy Cross responded in the 75th minute on a penalty kick goal by Benford, following a hand ball in the penalty box. But the Crusaders were unable to score again, as Lafayette held on for the win.

Senior goalkeeper Nick Conklu made four saves on the night while allowing two goals. The Leopards' Alex Sutton gave up one goal and did not have any saves.

"I give our team credit for leaving it all out on the field tonight," said head coach Marco Koolman. "I can only compliment the energy, effort and performance of our players, especially our seniors who finished their careers by competing hard. It was a short but intense spring season and I credit the team for being hard working and competitive." 

The 2021 spring season is now complete for the Crusaders.