SPRING ARBOR, Mich. - The Goshen College men's soccer team played to a 1-1 draw against host Spring Arbor University - received votes in latest NAIA national poll - in its first ever game in the newly named Crossroads League.

"Days before our conference opener, I told the boys that we needed to go there and try to get points, even coming away with a draw against a very good Spring Arbor side away from home would be a very good result," head coach Tavi Mounsithiraj said after his team picked up an important point in conference play.  "In my years at Goshen College, this was one of the best SAU teams that I have ever faced and they will be one of the best teams in the league."

Despite being satisfied with the possibility of a tie, the Maple Leafs managed to steal the lead late in the first half when junior Joseph Gunden was "Johnny on the spot" and scored his second goal of the season.

Despite being out shot 14-0 in the second half (27-6 on the night), Goshen held onto that lead until late.

"Right off the opening whistle, they were on attack mode trying to get an early goal and they were a bit unlucky and we were fortunate not to be down," Mounsithiraj said.  "Our keeper came up with some key saves on a couple of point blank shots and break aways.  Eventually, we found some holes and there were opportunities that we could go forward."

Cody Getsinger equalized for the host in the 80th minute of action on a set piece.  Then, despite the game opening up late, neither side was able to get a decisive goal in the 110 minutes of action.

"I was quite pleased with the defensive play of Khavoir Graham, Caleb Frey, Josh Van Allen, and Aaron Stiffney who filled in for an injured Jordan Berkey, and Brian O'Leary was fantastic in goal," Mounsithiraj added.  "Our offensive team needs to do a better job of protecting the ball and keeping possession under pressure and we need them to step up in the font third.  We have a lot of work to do ahead of us, but I am pleased with the result."

Goshen (5-3-1, 0-0-1 CL) returns to the pitch on Wednesday (7 p.m.) when they host the University of Saint Francis.