VTSU RANDOLPH MEN’S SOCCER EDGED 2–1 BY VTSU LYNDON

The Vermont State University Randolph men's soccer team battled hard at SHAPE Field on Wednesday afternoon but fell just short, dropping a 2–1 decision to in-state rival VTSU Lyndon.

After a scoreless first half, the action picked up quickly in the second. The Knights struck first in the 65th minute when first-year Henry Gibson delivered a powerful unassisted goal, putting Randolph ahead 1–0. The Hornets responded just three minutes later, as Ethan Cardenas found the equalizer in the 68th minute. Lyndon completed the comeback in the 85th minute when Perceval Hess scored the game-winner, sealing the 2–1 final.

Randolph generated plenty of chances throughout the match, outshooting Lyndon 13–8 and holding a 5–2 edge in shots on goal. Gibson led the Knights' attack with eight shots, including three on target, while Will Jenkins, Adolph Mbula, Caiden Crawford-Stemple, and Paul Persson also threatened the Hornets' net.

In goal, Gabe Sokolnicki recorded three saves while facing five shots on target. Lyndon goalkeeper Parker Pierce turned away four Randolph attempts to secure the victory.

The stat sheet reflected Randolph's aggressive play, as the Knights finished with the edge in shots but could not convert late opportunities. Both teams kept their discipline, with only one card shown on the day.

With the result, VTSU Randolph falls to 1-7-0 overall and 0-2 in conference play, while Lyndon improves to 1-6-0 and 0-2 in the league. The Knights will be back in action at SHAPE Field on Saturday, September 27, when they host NHTI.