SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y.-The SUNY Potsdam men's soccer team (4-1) used two second-half goals to secure a 2-0 non-conference win at Skidmore College (1-1) on Friday evening. Senior captain Ben Firlit (South Glens Falls, N.Y./South Glens Falls) and junior defender Matt Parsons (Glens Falls, N.Y./Glens Falls) each scored for the Bears. Senior goalie Jesse Kohler (Middletown, N.Y./Tompkins-Cortland C.C.) made five saves for the shutout.

The two teams traded offensive opportunities in the first half, but neither side was able to break the deadlock. Potsdam had its best chance of the frame four minutes into the contest as senior midfielder Mario Riccardi (Beacon, N.Y./Beacon) drilled a dipping strike towards goal, but the ball dropped just over the crossbar. Kohler kept the score at 0-0 heading into half time after coming out of the goal to deny Kevin Santos's breakaway opportunity.

Potsdam struck quickly in the second half on Firlit's fifth tally of the season. Parsons received the ball at the top of the 18-yard box and pulled off a flick-backheeled pass to find Firlit alone in front of goal. Firlit made the most of the chance, tucking the ball inside the post for 1-0 lead.

The Thoroughbreds nearly tied the game in the 60th minute, but Kohler handled a Nick Masiero attempt. On the ensuing corner, Adebare Oyeniyi sent a header off the crossbar. The Bears answered back quickly, doubling their advantage in the 65th minute as Parsons unleashed a rocket into the top left corner from 25 yards. Skidmore looked to rally late, but the Potsdam defense stifled the Thoroughbreds attack, holding on for the 2-0 win.

Skidmore outshot Potsdam 16-9 and had a 7-3 edge in corners. Derrick

Yam made two saves in goal for the Thoroughbreds.

The Bears head to the Albany College of Pharmacy tomorrow to square off with Sage at 4 p.m.