PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. – The Plattsburgh State men's soccer team battled hard against No. 9 nationally ranked Cortland on Saturday afternoon but ultimately fell, 2-0, in SUNYAC play at the Field House Complex.

The Cardinals entered the matchup still seeking their first conference win of the season, holding a 0-1-1 SUNYAC record after a draw with Morrisville in their last conference contest. Facing a Cortland team they hadn't defeated since 2019, the Cardinals conceded an early goal just six minutes into play, as Owen Brant capitalized on a misplay to give the Red Dragons a 1-0 lead.

Despite the early setback, the first half was an even, back-and-forth battle, with both teams trading stretches of possession and recording six shots apiece. Cortland carried its one-goal advantage into halftime.

Plattsburgh controlled much of the second half, dictating the pace and generating several quality scoring chances, but the Red Dragons' defense held firm. Cortland added an insurance goal late in the half on one of its few opportunities, with Bruno Baez finding the back of the net to secure the 2-0 result.

With the loss, Plattsburgh State falls to 5-2-4 overall and 0-2-1 in SUNYAC play. The Cardinals will look to bounce back on the road Wednesday, Oct. 8, with another conference matchup against Oneonta.