CASTLETON, Vt. – The Vermont State University Castleton men's soccer team opened its 2026 season Tuesday evening, falling 1-0 to Russell Sage in nonconference action at Dave Wolk Stadium.
The Basics:
- Final Score: 1-0 Russell Sage
- Location: Castleton, Vt. | Dave Wolk Stadium
- Records: 1-0 Russell Sage | 0-1 Castleton
How it Happened:
The Gators got the first chance of the game with a header that sailed wide before first-year
Owen Hackett put the Spartans on the attack, forcing a save from the Russell Sage keeper.
Hackett continued to create chances for Castleton, firing another shot just wide in the 31st minute.
Xander Berthiaume then came up with a big save in the final minute of the half to keep the game scoreless heading into the break.
Sage broke the deadlock in the 58th minute, scoring off a corner kick to take a 1-0 lead.
Castleton continued to pressure the Gators' defense and created several chances in search of the equalizer, but couldn't find the back of the net as Russell Sage held on for the 1-0 win.
By the Numbers:
- Hackett powered the Spartans' offense with four shots.
- Berthiaume finished the game with three saves through 90 minutes.
- Russell Sage outshot Castleton 10-7 and held a 10-2 advantage in corner kicks.
What's Next
The Spartans will continue their homestead with a match against Norwich at 7 p.m. on Sept. 4.
