ALFRED, N.Y.— The Ithaca College men's soccer team continued their winning ways on Saturday afternoon, defeating Alfred State College 2-1 on the road and improved to 2-1 on the 2024 season.

The Bombers defense stole the show, with goalkeeper Brayden Milbrandt making three saves as Ithaca allowed just six shots throughout the entire contest. Saturday marked the first collegiate start for Millbrandt.

Ithaca's offense got the scoring started early in the first half. Drew Warren took advantage of a penalty kick to net his first goal of the season, giving Ithaca an early 1-0 lead just eight minutes into the game.

Ithaca's defense held strong as the Bombers and the Pioneers traded defensive jabs for the next 20 minutes. Alfred State managed to even the game at 1-1 with 19 minutes remaining in the first half, thanks to a shot that dipped into to the top corner of the Bombers goal.

Both teams were unable to find the back of the net for the remainder of the first half, totaling just four combined shots, with Ithaca putting only one on target.

The second half started much like the first half ended, with the Bombers and the Pioneers combining for just three shots in the first 20 minutes, none of which were on goal. The Bombers attempted a fast break 67th minute, but a foul forced them to give possession back to Alfred State, continuing the defensive battle for both sides.

However, the Bombers struck just two minutes later. Jack Carney posted a shot to the top left of the goal, assisted by Nick Dignazio, giving Ithaca their second lead of the day at 2-1. Ithaca's defense held firm, allowing just one more shot from Alfred State for the remainder of the game as they stymied each offensive threat, securing the 2-1 win.

Next up, Ithaca College will host their home opener against SUNY Brockport on Tuesday, September 10, at Carp Wood Field.