Newark, N.J. (9/24/16) – The Kean University men's soccer team suffered a 2-1 defeat to Rutgers-Newark in NJAC action on Saturday night.

All of tonight's scoring happened in the first half as the team's traded goals in a five minute span, both on penalty kicks.  The physical game featured a combined 36 fouls and six cards.

It was the Scarlet Raiders (8-2, 1-1 NJAC) striking first with a PK goal by Fabio De Sousa at 26:30.  Senior Sev Kherlopian (pictured left) knotted the match with his own strike just under 34 minutes in.

De Sousa countered with the game-winner at the 37:59 mark off a cross from Zachary Gillespie. 

On paper, the game was evenly matched with Rutgers-Newark holding a slight edge in corner kicks (8-5) and Kean holding the advantage in shots, 20-16.

Derek Phells registered seven saves in the loss.

The Cougars (8-2, 1-1 NJAC) return to conference play on Wednesday when they host Montclair State.