| 12/30/2003 1:49:28 PM

ROCHESTER, NY -- The men's soccer team defeated Keene State, 1-0 in the championship game of the 2003 Tiger Invitational. Michael Lawson (Wall, NJ) scored the game-winning goal in the 66th minute on an assist from Trae Lower (Biglerville, PA). RIT's Chris Mbaakanyi(Francistown, Botswana) was named the tournament's Most outstanding Player.

RIT had six shots in the first half, while Keene State had seven. RIT's Nate Andrews (Rochester, NY) made five saves in the opening half without allowing a goal. Brandon Beck made two saves for the Owls.

The second half saw the level of play improve on both sides of the ball. Keene State created several scoring chances that resulted in point blank shots. However, Andrews and the defense of J.J. Wagner (Holley, NY), Travis Proctor (Livonia, NY) and George Chavez (Endicott, NY) were equal to the task holding the Owls off the scoreboard. The Tigers also created some scoring chances of their own, one of which resulted in a goal. Trae Lower drove all the way into the penalty area. Beck came out to challenge but Lower was able to slip past him and find Lawson open on the other side. He shot it on the first touch, giving RIT a 1-0 lead.

The Tigers were able to hold on for the final few minutes, earning the win and the championship. Nate Andrews finished the game with nine saves, while Beck made three.

The Tigers will travel to Cortland State on Friday, September 5 for a game against the Red Dragons at 7 p.m.

2003 All-Tournament Team:
Most Outstanding Player: Chris Mbaakanyi (RIT)
Defense - Jimmy Hogan (Keene)
Defense - J.J. Wagner (RIT)
Midfield - Mike Lawson (RIT)
Midfield - Geoff Schmidt (RIT)
Midfield - John Harke (Keene)
Forward - Casey Banks (Keene)
Forward - Matt Roser (Westminster)
Forward - Jason Lombardo (Keene)
Forward - Trae Lower (RIT)
Forward - Chris Mbaakanyi)