BETHELHEM, Pa. - The Northampton Spartan men's soccer team opened the 2010 campaign on Tuesday afternoon with a hard-fought 2-1 loss to Bergen Community College in their NJCAA Region XIX debut.

The Spartans started quickly as freshman Clark Israel sliced through the Bulldog defense just 2 minutes and 41 seconds into the game to give NCC a quick 1-0 lead.  Bergen responded just five minutes later as Erekle Niniashuili tied the contest on a long blast.  Ten minutes later Niniashuili scored what proved to be the game winner, giving Bergen a 2-1 advantage.

Play throughout the second half was even, with both teams having several opportunities, including the Spartans rattling two shots off the crossbar with under 10 minutes remaining in the contest.

"Obviously we are disappointed with the loss," commented Head Coach Ned Yelovich, "but as a coaching staff we saw some real positive things out there today and we will make some adjustments and come out and compete as hard as possible vs. Cumberland on Thursday."

Melvin Amonte (9 saves) took the loss in goal for the Spartans, who drop to 0-1-0 on the season. 

Northampton travels to Cumberland County College on Thursday for a 4:00pm contest.

Bergen improves to 1-0-0 with the victory.