The Bard College men's soccer team earned their first point of Liberty League play this season in a 0-0 draw at Vassar's Gordon Field on Wednesday afternoon. The tie was the Raptors' first against Vassar in the local rivalry's history. 

In a defensive battle, Bard (5-1-1, 0-1-1 Liberty League) was edged by Vassar (4-3-2, 0-1-1) in shots on goal by a 4-to-1 margin. Junior goalkeeper Gavin Hersey had four saves and was also busy keeping the Vassar offense off the board by collecting crosses and through balls. 

Vassar had a shot on goal within the first 20 seconds of the game, but was saved by Hersey in a one-on-one battle. The Raptors had a chance from first-year Mateo Betelu but his shot was just high. 

In the second half, Vassar was still on the offensive but the Raptors had a chance to score with less than five minutes left in the game. Junior Reed Campbell took a shot toward the top right corner but it was saved by the Vassar goalkeeper. 

The draw was the first result for the Raptors against the Brewers in the 23 meetings on record dating back to September 10, 1994. The point also represents the first Liberty League result for Head Coach TJ Kostecky. 

Bard will travel to RIT for another conference matchup on Saturday at 1 p.m.