CASTLETON, Vt. -- For the first time in over a year, the Castleton University men's soccer team returned to action and dropped a 4-1 non-conference decision to Norwich Sunday afternoon at Dave Wolk Stadium.
 
The Cadets (1-0) came out of the gates fast and took the lead with just over 30 seconds off the clock. Joseph Thongsythavong collected the ball and dribbled through multiple defenders before sending goaltender Alex Fernald the wrong way, giving the Cadets a 1-0 lead. The Spartans (0-1), however, would respond just under three minutes later. With 41:30 showing on the game clock, Stanley Anderson caused a turnover and chipped goaltender Ben Wasco as he tallied his first career collegiate goal, tying the game at one.
 
After a Spartan foul just outside the penalty area, the Cadets would regain the lead at the 21:44 mark of the first half. Amerle Nemeye gave the Cadets a 2-1 lead as he scored on a perfectly placed free-kick past a diving Fernald.
 
The Cadets would add two more goals in the second half, including a second goal from Thongsythavong and a diving header from Bienfait Badibanga, solidifying the victory.
 
All three Spartan goaltenders saw playing time in today's contest as Fernald started the game tallied three saves in 29:29 minutes of action. Andres Soto-Burgos relieved Fernald in the first half and allowed just one goal in 30:22 minutes. Freshman Jonathan Maul would enter the second half, tallied three saves in 30:99 minutes of action.
 
Castleton returns to action Friday, April 2, as it travels to Henniker, N.H. to take on New England College at 7 p.m.