MIDDLETOWN, Pa. - Penn State Harrisburg's men's soccer team opened the 2022 season with a 1-1 draw with Alvernia on Thursday evening, Sept. 1. 

Division I transfer Ethan Cortes wasted little time converting his first goal in a Penn State Harrisburg uniform as his second-half marker proved the team's lone goal. The Wolves caught a break late in the contest, leading to a penalty kick that tied things up in the closing minutes.

After controlling the pace for much of the first half, the Lions (0-0-1) finally broke through when Kobe Harris played a ball towards the Alvernia box that Cortes chased down and stayed with through contact before making a move around AU goalkeeper Evan Solley and finishing it off in the 56th minute. 

A hand ball in the box proved the break the Wolves (0-0-1) needed, however, as Nick Wilson was able to put his ensuing penalty kick attempt past Penn State Harrisburg goalkeeper Esteban Leon to pul the visitors even with less than 12 minutes remaining. 

NOTABLES

- Cortes' goal was the first of his collegiate career. 

- Harris' assist on Cortes' marker was the first point of his career.

- Leon made a single save on the day, while Solley turned away four shots. 

- Penn State Harrisburg is now 0-1-2 against Alvernia in the school's NCAA era. 

- Thursday's matchup was the first contest between the two programs since 2015. 

- The Lions doubled up Alvernia in corner kicks (6-3).

- Three yellow cards were handed out to Penn State Harrisburg in the opener.

WHO'S NEXT?

The Lions will attempt to secure their first win of the young season when they host Stevenson on Saturday afternoon. Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m.

STAY CONNECTED

Fans can keep up with Penn State Harrisburg Athletics all season long on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Youtube using the handle @pshbgathletics.