OSWEGO, N.Y. – Oswego Men's Soccer kicked off its 2025 Season tonight with a home opener against Clarkson University, squaring off in a non-conference matchup under the lights.
THE BASICS
Final Score:
Oswego 0 (0-0-1, 0-0 SUNYAC)
Clarkson 0 (0-0-1, 0-0 Liberty League)
Location: Laker Turf Stadium | SUNY Oswego | Oswego, N.Y.
HOW IT HAPPENED
The Lakers opened the match with early possession, moving the ball around their defensive line before advancing into Clarkson territory. Just three minutes in, the Golden Knights broke through for a dangerous run toward the box, but their shot was handled cleanly by goalkeeper Kyle Rose for his first save of the game. Clarkson kept up the pressure with crisp passing and steady communication, forcing Oswego's defense to stay alert. A foul deep in Oswego's defensive half set up a free kick that the Lakers quickly turned into an attack, earning another free kick outside the 18 after Tajay Ellis was fouled. Ian Husselbeck stepped up for the chance, but his strike was blocked by Clarkson's wall. As play continued, Clarkson's physicality became evident, racking up nine fouls in the opening 25 minutes compared to just two for Oswego. Despite the aggression, the Lakers created chances of their own, including a well-built sequence that set up Marcus Baker inside the box, though his shot was deflected out for a corner. Rose came up big again later in the half, punching away Clarkson's corner attempt in traffic. As the clock wound down, Oswego showed improved chemistry and ball movement, generating multiple late opportunities. However, a last-minute chance before the whistle was turned away, sending both teams into halftime scoreless at 0-0.
Clarkson opened the second half with possession, pressing into Oswego's defensive third, but the Lakers quickly cleared away the threat. The Golden Knights continued their physical play, adding to their foul count and picking up another yellow card, while Oswego pushed forward with consistent offensive pressure. Midway through the half, Tajay Ellis drew a foul just outside the box to set up a dangerous free kick opportunity, though Scout McCumiskey's attempt sailed over the crossbar. The Lakers controlled much of the possession as the intensity grew, but Clarkson nearly broke through with a fast counterattack that forced Kyle Rose to make a diving save to keep the game scoreless. With under 15 minutes remaining, both teams grew anxious, exchanging quick possessions and restless plays as fatigue set in. Clarkson created one of their best chances with a cross to an open attacker on the far post, but Oswego's defense closed in fast to force an off-target shot. In the closing minutes, Ian Husselbeck was booked with a yellow card, giving Clarkson a late free kick, but the Lakers stood strong. Despite a final push from both sides, neither team found the back of the net, and the match concluded in a 0-0 draw.
WHAT'S NEXT
Oswego Men's soccer will return to action on Tuesday, September 2nd, where they will host Hamilton College at 4:00 PM
Written By: Jillian Kraus
@OswegoAthletics | FB: OswegoAthleticsOfficial | IG: oswegoathletics
