Sarah Lawrence College Athletics

YONKERS, N.Y. – The Sarah Lawrence College men's soccer team battled the undefeated Medgar Evers College Cougars to a 2-2 draw Monday evening at Fleming Soccer Field.

The Gryphons, who move to 1-1-3 on the season, twice rallied from behind, with sophomore Kairos Diaz and senior Connor Saul finding the back of the net. Medgar Evers, now 2-0-1, received both of its goals from Kevin Blackstock Jr.

The Cougars opened the scoring in the 12th minute when Blackstock Jr. converted on Medgar Evers' first shot of the match.

Sarah Lawrence responded in the 24th minute. Diaz collected his third goal of the season and fourth of his career to level the match at 1-1. The Gryphons carried the momentum into halftime, recording five additional shots and holding the Cougars to just one more attempt over the remainder of the opening half.

Medgar Evers came out aggressively after the break, forcing senior goalkeeper Jonah Zalis to make his first save of the evening in the 58th minute. Zalis finished the match with a season-high three saves while playing all 90 minutes.

Just six minutes later, the Gryphons earned a penalty kick after a Medgar Evers handball in the box. Saul stepped to the spot and calmly converted in the 64th minute, giving Sarah Lawrence its first lead of the night. The goal marked Saul's first of the season and fourth of his career.

The lead lasted just over a minute, however, as Blackstock Jr. struck again in the 65th minute to bring the Cougars level at 2-2.

Both teams continued to push for the deciding goal late in the match. Medgar Evers registered five additional shots, including two on target, while Sarah Lawrence generated three more attempts, including one in the final minute. Neither side could break through, sending the match to a 2-2 final.

Sarah Lawrence finished with an 11-9 advantage in shots, while both teams recorded five shots on goal. Medgar Evers held a 4-1 edge in corner kicks. The Cougars were whistled for 14 fouls compared to 10 for the Gryphons and received two yellow cards, while Sarah Lawrence was shown one.

Monday's result marked the first draw in the all-time series between the programs. The Gryphons now hold an 8-1-1 record against the Cougars.

Medgar Evers' 3-0-1 start is its best four-game opening to a season in program history.

The Gryphons return to action Wednesday, September 16, when they host Bard College at Fleming Soccer Field. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. as Sarah Lawrence hosts its Morgan's Message dedication game.