CASTLETON, Vt. – The Castleton men's soccer team held an early advantage in front of the home crowd Thursday night but were unable to hold onto the lead, falling 3-1 to Russell Sage in their season-opener.
 
The Gators (1-0) took control of the game early, creating multiple chances in the opening 20 minutes, but it the Spartans (0-1) capitalizing on their first chance in the 24^th minute to take the 1-0 lead.
 
Gonzalaiz Arakaza carried the ball into the box, but a heavy touch sent it toward a Russell Sage defender. Sticking with the play, the freshman threw his body at the ball, forcing a deflection and sending the ball toward Jacob Henderson, who took one touch and was fouled to draw a penalty kick. Arakaza lined up to take the free shot and sent it past the Gators' Tyler Brennan and in to give Castleton the lead and score his first collegiate goal.
 
Consecutive yellow cards for both teams shifted the momentum of the game, and Russell Sage was able to find the equalizer at the 33-minute mark off a rebound. The Gators kept the pressure on, getting five shots off in the final 12 minutes, but the one that found its way on frame was turned aside by Andres Soto-Burgos — one of his six saves in the contest.
 
The Spartans struggled with fouls to start the second half, and on their third of the frame, Russell Sage was able to capitalize to take the 2-1 lead on a header from Isaiah Edmonds. Another goal in the 71^st minute gave the Gators a 3-1 lead and would seal the season-opening loss for Castleton, who were outshot 9-3 in the game.
 
The Spartans next chance to earn their first win of the season comes Wednesday, September 7 when they travel to New York to take on Plattsburgh State. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.