By PAUL ZINN
Staff Writer
 

The Bates Men's Soccer team dropped a 5-0 decision at the feet of Middlebury last Saturday afternoon. Middlebury (2-0), ranked fifth in New England, recovered from a mediocre first half to dominate the second session, scoring four goals.

The Panthers got a hat trick from John Giannacolpoulos. The Middlebury midfielder scored in the seventh minute, but after that Bates had numerous opportunities to even up the score throughout the first half.

One of the best chances for the Bobcats came on a direct kick, late in the first half, just outside the penalty area, but it deflected off a Middlebury defender and was cleared out of the box.

Giannacopoulos beat Bobcat keeper Dan Spector, making his first collegiate start, twice more with goals in the 53rd and 77th minutes.

"It was unfortunate that he [Spector] had to be in goal when so many great shots were taken," said Coach George Purgavie of Spector's performance. "The difference was Middlebury's finishing," he added.

Bates fell to 1-1 on the year and will next play at Plymouth State on September 29. Last year Bates knocked off Plymouth State with a dramatic 3-2 overtime win at Leahy Field.