HOBOKEN, N.J.– Eastern University Men's Soccer (9-9-1, 5-2) dropped a 1-0 decision to the MAC Freedom newcomer Stevens University Ducks in game that decided the top seed in the upcoming MAC Freedom Tournament. The Ducks (12-3-2, 6-0-1) claimed the regular-season championship and the top seed with the win.

How It Happened:
With much on the line, both teams kept things secure in the back early. In game played mostly in the midfield, the teams each put a pair of shots on goal in the first half. Eastern had all three first-half corners but were unable to capitalize.

That proved to be the difference in the second half. The hosts earned seven corners after the intermission and found their moment of quality in the 57th minute. Jacob Curtis found a little space at the near post on the first corner kick of the half and headed home his fifth of the year. 

Down 1-0 the Eagles committed numbers forward, but could not break through for a shot on frame in the second half. The Ducks allowd only two goals in seven league matches this fall. 

Coach Payne Says:
"I thought we had the better first half. Our energy and the way we defended was the best that it was all year. We didn't concede any dangerous chances in the first half while getting one or two of our own."

"They were better than us in the second half. They showed more focus and determination than we did in the second half. They had some chances and we didn't."

"We will focus on Misericordia now. We look forward to playing at home on Wednesday."

Up Next:
The Eagles start the MAC Freedom Tournament with a home match against Misericordia on Wednesday. The third-seeded Cougars beat the Eagles in double-overtime earlier this year. Stevens will host King's on Wednesday .