THROGGS NECK, NY - The Maritime College men's soccer team opened up their 2019 Skyline Conference campaign with a tough 3-0 loss to the United States Merchant Marine Academy on Wednesday night.

The Privateers got off to a slow start in the contest as the Mariners put up a goal less than 10 minutes into the action off a through ball that squeaked the Maritime defense. Although the Privateers were hoping to bounce back from the early goal, it was USMMA who found the back of the net as Alex Madonna nailed a shot into the upper right corner in the 16th minute to make it a 2-0 advantage.

Maritime registered six corner kicks and three more shots before the half was up as they continued to put heavy pressure on the Mariners defense hoping to close the gap. Unfortunately, they were unable to convert on their opportunities and entered the locker rooms trailing by two goals.

The Privateers continued to push the tempo in the second half, but were unable to break through the USMMA defense and ultimately fell by a score of 3-0.

Maritime totaled nine shots, including four on target. The Privateers also held an 11-7 advantage in corner kicks. Anthony Sblendorio (Bay Shore, N.Y./Bay Shore) led the offense with four shots and two on target, while Michael Rodriguez (Wappingers Falls, N.Y./Roy C. Ketcham) finished with four saves.

Maritime will look to bounce back on Saturday when they travel to Farmingdale St. for a 12 p.m. kickoff.