OLD WESTBURY, NY (www.OLDWESTBURYPANTHERS.com) - In what was a tightly contested opening match, the SUNY College at Old Westbury men's soccer team defeated the John Jay Bloodhounds by the score of 2-1 Wednesday afternoon at Panther Park.

A high-energy first half yielded all three of the match's goals. The first came in the 27^th minute, when the Bloodhounds jumped out to an early lead courtesy of a Christian Munoz breakaway. But just three minutes later the Panthers struck back, when forward Scott Carey found room and banged home an attempt from the top of the box.

Less than one minute later, captain Michael Bayne scored from nearly the same spot after defender Austin Gozley found the skipper with a throw-in. It was the senior's third career goal.

Though the Bloodhounds challenged at times, the Panthers' midfield remained tidy thanks to the strong play of both Kosi Ikwuazom and Anthony Ippolito. Midfielder Kevin Skaalerud also provided great pace and enthusiasm off the bench in his first career game.

Old Westbury nearly doubled John Jay's shot total, outshooting the Bloodhounds 21-12. Keeper Marcelo Guardado made five saves in his 14^th career start.

SUNY POTSDAM UP NEXT FOR THE PANTHERS: Old Westbury returns to the pitch for a non-conference battle on Saturday evening, when they visit the SUNY Potsdam Bears. Kick-off is slated for 6 p.m. from Potsdam.

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