MIDDLEBURY, Vt.-- Despite a 2-0 loss to Middlebury College on Saturday afternoon, the Bates men's soccer team secured a spot in the NESCAC Championship tournament due to Wesleyan's tie with Colby. This marks the Bobcats' first postseason appearance since 2019.
The Panthers captured the Hedley Reynolds Cup, named in honor of Thomas Hedley Reynolds who held administrative roles at both institutions, after striking twice in the first half. Senior Gavin Randolph opened the scoring in the 20th minute, and junior Colin Dugan added another seven minutes later to extend the lead.
Middlebury outshot Bates 23-12, including an 8-4 edge on goal. Sophomore goalkeeper George Nassar tallied six saves for the Bobcats.
Bates returns home to Russell Street Field on Tuesday to close out the regular season against Colby College at 4:30 p.m.