Clayton State men drop another 2-1 heartbreaker at No. 17 Flagler

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – October 22, 2011 – What has been the story of the season so far for the Clayton State Laker men's soccer team continued on Saturday night.

Playing a pivotal Peach Belt Conference contest at No. 17-ranked Flagler, Clayton State again could not convert on key offensive opportunities as the Lakers dropped a tough 2-1 decision against the Saints. The defeat - the fourth in the last five games for the Lakers - dropped Clayton State to 8-6 overall and 3-4 in the Peach Belt. All six Laker defeats have each been by one goal.

Flagler improves to 12-3-1 overall and 6-1-1 in the Peach Belt.

The Lakers cashed in on an early opportunity as senior midfielder Janny Rivera scored on a direct kick in the seventh minute to give Clayton State the early 1-0 lead.

But Flagler capitalized late in the first half. The Saints tied the game in the 40th minute on a goal by Joseph Toby off an assist by Johan Bergfeld. Flagler took the lead four minutes later as Pol Berenguer scored the go-ahead goal off an assist by Toby.

Clayton State had eight shots at the goal in the second half, including five in the final 10 minutes, but could not get the equalizer. The Saints out-shot the Lakers 18-13. Clayton State goalkeeper Brian Garcia recorded three saves, as did Flagler goalkeeper Camp Bissell.

Clayton State plays host to Alabama-Huntsville on Senior Night on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. at Laker Field.