Keuka College was less than a minute away from earning its first win of the season Thursday, but Alfred State found the equalizer in the closing seconds to force a 1-1 draw at the Jephson Community Athletic Complex.
The Wolves, now 0-2-1, controlled much of the possession early but struggled to turn that advantage into scoring opportunities. Alfred State created the more dangerous chances during the opening 45 minutes, including a shot that hit the post in the 19th minute.
The Pioneers nearly broke through again 10 minutes later after a loose ball pulled Keuka goalkeeper Jakob Snyder away from his line. Alfred State’s attacker worked into the box and fired toward the open net, but first-year defender Cody Bronner stepped in front of the attempt and kept the match scoreless.
Keuka finally capitalized on a quality opportunity in the 58th minute. After the Wolves earned a free kick from 23 yards out, first-year defender Avery Pawlisch delivered a right-footed shot that cleared the wall and curled inside the left post for his first collegiate goal.
Snyder helped protect the advantage with three saves, including a point-blank stop shortly after Pawlisch’s goal. Keuka also nearly doubled its lead on a counterattack when Tyler Trowbridge played Alex Adou into the box, but Adou’s attempt narrowly missed the left post.
Alfred State continued applying pressure and eventually broke through with 30 seconds remaining, denying Keuka its first victory.
The Wolves finished with four shots to Alfred State’s 12, while the Pioneers also held a 5-2 advantage in corner kicks. Pawlisch scored on his first career shot.
Keuka will open Empire 8 play Saturday when it travels to Russell Sage College.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.