Virginia Beach, VA – Stockton University (0-1) played strong defense, but allowed a late goal and fell to Virginia Wesleyan (1-0) by a 1-0 decision on Friday afternoon. It was the first match in the Steve Shaw Classic.

The first 45 minutes were tight defensively as the Marlins held a slim 3-2 advantage in shots. Aiden Hoenisch (Bordentown/Notre Dame) squeezed off a shot at 9:37 that was kicked away. Dawson Joseph (East Brunswick/East Brunswick) had an opportunity at 14:50 that missed to the right side as the teams played a scoreless half.

The Marlins took control in the final frame, outshooting the Ospreys 6-0 before finally scoring the eventual game winning tally. In the 71st minute, Wesleyan had a corner kick that made its way to the middle where Nate Mitchell scored the goal for the 1-0 lead. The Marlins defense stiffened and set the final score for the one goal victory.

Sophomore Brady Bartletta (Hainesport/Rancocas Valley) made five saves in the loss. His counterpart Ben Haynes made just one save in gaining the shutout.

Stockton will travel to Newport News, VA tomorrow to face Christopher Newport in the second match of the Classic. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 pm.