Men’s soccer: Comets suffer 6-1 loss to Calvin in season-finale

OLIVET, Mich. – The Olivet College men's soccer team ended its season with a 6-1 loss to Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) champion Calvin College today at Zuidema Field in Grand Rapids.

The Knights led 3-0 at halftime. The first two goals came in a three minute and 58 second span in the 23rd and 27th minutes. The last was scored with only one second left on the first-half clock.

The Comets scored their goal in the 52nd minute when senior Jon Puente found the back of the net. Sophomore Gregory Petty was credited with an assist on the goal. Calvin capped the scoring with three straight goals for the final margin.

Olivet finished the game with seven shots, with Puente collecting a team-high three. Junior Ryan Grashik played the first half in goal and did not make a save. Senior Alex Lang played the second half in net and collected four saves.

"Not the end we wanted to the season today," said Olivet Head Coach Dan Bulley. "We have played some excellent soccer this season and have been more consistent than last year in that respect. Today, Calvin was the better team and we wish (Calvin Head) Coach (Ryan) Souders and his team the best as it progresses.

"Our guys worked hard and when things do not go your way that is all I can ask for and they still showed their commitment to the team. It is always sad to see our seniors leave the field for the last time. This class can be proud of their achievements both on and off the field and will move on in life in a positive direction and are better people for the experiences they have faced.

"We are left with a fine set of young men and the program will continue to look forward," continued Bulley. "I want to thank each player for the effort and dedication to the team this year. I want to also thank the staff members who have worked their tails off for the cause."

NOTES: Calvin out-scored its MIAA opponents, 51-3, in 14 games. The Comets had two of three goals, which the Knights allowed. Eight seniors – Camden Iwasko, Lang, John Leutzinger, Puente, Zach Schulz, Evan Simpson, Matt Van Houten and Jared Wilson-Santos – wore a Comet uniform for the final time.