CLEVELAND, Ohio – The Case Western Reserve University men's soccer team fell by a score of 3-1 to No. 6 nationally-ranked New York University in the 2012 University Athletic Association opener on Saturday night at Case Field.

The Spartans drop to 3-6-1 overall and 0-1 in the UAA. NYU remains perfect at 9-0 overall and 1-0 in the conference.

NYU threatened to get on the board at 6:10 of the first half, but a loose ball heading for an empty Spartan net was blocked by senior back Sam Kuehnle (Toledo, Ohio/Ottawa Hills). Just over a minute later, NYU did get on the board at the 7:21 mark when Kyle Green tapped a shot over senior goalkeeper Ryan Koepka (Venetia, Pa./Peters Township).  

The Spartans evened the score in the 34th minute as freshman midfielder Chris Cvecko (Erie, Pa./McDowell) grabbed control of a 50-50 ball and knocked it into an empty net for his second goal of 2012.

However, NYU would regain the lead in the 44th minute via a penalty kick by Niki Chow. The visitors added an insurance score late in the 78th minute when Green knocked in a header following a long pass by Ryan Horch.

For the match, both sides attempted seven shots, while NYU held a 4-1 edge in corner kicks.

In net, Koepka (2-4) recorded three saves, while Jonas Poster (9-0) made one for the Violets.

The Spartans return to action at home this Wednesday, October 3 versus Hiram College at 8:00 p.m.