The York University Lions men's soccer team was looking for its second straight win to start the season on Sunday evening, as they battled the Laurier Golden Hawks in the second half of a season-opening home-and-home series.

The Lins took the opener in the York Orientation Game on Thursday night at York Lions Stadium by a score of 2-0. James Fidalgo and Rutgers transfer Anthony Morono supplied the offence in the second half, with the goals coming six minutes apart just beyond the hour mark.

The offence was a lot tougher to come by for the red and white in the rematch, however. York generated several chances, outshooting Laurier 9-5 in the first half. Golden Hawks goalkeeper David Corano was stout between the pipes for the home side, though, turning aside all five shots on target in the opening 45 minutes.

Despite the Lions controlling the pace of play, the Hawks opened the scoring in the final minute of the first half. Leonardo Takahashi was able to beat Alessio Carbone with just seconds remaining before the break. His first of the season made it 1-0 Laurier at the half

York had a few chances to equalize in the second half, including Morano being stopped by Corano in the 90th minute, but were unable to put it past the Hawks keeper. The home side hung on for a 1-0 win, handing the Lions their first shutout since Sept. 16, 2024 vs. Guelph (0-0), and their first shutout loss since Sept. 24, 2023 vs. Western (0-2).

LOOKING AHEAD: 

The Lions will look to rebound from the loss on Friday night when they travel to Hamilton to begin a back-to-back set with the McMaster Marauders. Kickoff from Ron Joyce Stadium is set for 8:15 pm.