Box Score

NORTH ANDOVER, Mass.- Junior Francisco Lara (Laredo, Texas) notched a second half goal, but the Southern Connecticut State University men's soccer team lost a 2-1 decision to Merrimack on Saturday afternoon.

Lara's goal came unassisted in the 80^th minute, striking a shot from the top of the 18-yard box.

Andrew Esposito (East Haven, Conn.) recorded three saves for the Owls.

Merrimack struck first with a goal in the opening nine minutes and added another in the second half before Lara's third tally of the year closed the Owls to within a score.

Southern is back in action at home Wednesday, Oct. 5 against conference rival Franklin Pierce at 7 p.m.