NEW LONDON, N.H. – Castleton's men's soccer team (3-6-1, 2-1-1 NAC) dropped its first North Atlantic Conference match of the season on Saturday, falling to Colby-Sawyer 2-0.

The game proved to be an even contest in the first half as neither squad really took control of the game. The Spartans were able to outshoot the Chargers (5-4) and held the edge in corners (5-0), but weren't able to convert any scoring opportunities as the game was tied 0-0 heading into halftime.

After break, Colby-Sawyer's attack was able to gather momentum, and in the 48th minute, the Chargers took the first lead of the contest when Alex Ortega notched his fourth goal of the season.

Eight minutes later, Colby-Sawyer doubled its lead to two when Ortega delivered the ball to Denall Sexton who finished it into the back of the net for his third goal of this campaign.

Overall, Castleton's attack produced plenty of chances, outshooting its opponents 15-7 with seven shots on goal. The Spartans also held the advantage in corners, earning seven more than Colby-Sawyer, however, they were unlucky and could not produce a goal in the contest.

In net, Dan Palker picked up his sixth loss of the season for the Spartans, producing four saves with two goals allowed in 90 minutes of action. Nick Austin, who is now 6-3 overall, earned the victory for the Chargers as he recorded seven saves en route to his sixth shutout of the season.

Castleton continues its season on Tuesday when it plays Southern Vermont at Spartan Stadium for a non-conference match beginning at 7 pm.