With just three games left on the schedule heading, the Tompkins Cortland Community College men's soccer team is in need of a strong finish to make the NJCAA Region III playoffs. After Thursday's 6-0 loss to Cayuga Community College, the Panthers have made their final two games must-wins. Tompkins Cortland's record is now 5-8 overall, 4-8 in Region III, and 2-3 in the Mid-State Athletic Conference. Cayuga is 9-2 overall, 8-2 in region, and 5-0 in the MSAC.
The first goal came early, as the Spartans found the net in the eighth minute of play. The rest of the half produced chances, but no goals for either team. That changed in the opening moments of the second half, as Cayuga capitalized on their first chance to make the lead 2-0 with 43:44 left on the clock. The Spartans added a pair of goals midway through the half, and then sealed the win with a goal with 7:19 left. Cayuga tacked on with the final goal with 29 seconds left in the game.
Jacob Beber (Fort Ann/Fort Ann H.S.) played all 90 minutes in goal, recording eight saves.
The Panthers look to bounce back Sunday. Tompkins Cortland hosts Mohawk Valley Community College at 2:30 p.m. for Sophomore Appreciation Day.