NEW YORK – A comeback fell short for the Columbia men's soccer team, as the Lions dropped their first Ivy League match of the season today to Princeton, 2-1.
 
With the loss, the Lions sit at 5-4-1 (2-1 Ivy League) this year, while the Tigers improve to 7-4-1 (2-0-1 Ivy League).
 
Princeton got on the board in the 16th minute, when Sean McSherry scored his third goal of the season, beating Dylan Castanheira for the goal.
 
Later in the half on a Columbia defensive possession, Princeton's Jeremy Colvin turned and got big, blocking Castanheira's clear near the top of the box. The ball then skidded towards goal, rolling inside the right post and into the back of the net in the 29th minute.
 
After the Tigers went into the half up 2-0, Columbia came out looking to produce on the offensive end. That production was found when Danny Laranetto gained back possession, then found Andrew Stevens in the middle of the field. The first-year fired a left-footed strike from 15-yards away, beating Princeton's Jacob Schachner for the first goal of his career.
 
With a 2-1 lead for the visiting team, the Lions would continue to create chances in the final third. Markarian and Stevens had shots blocked and sail high in the 73rd and 77th minute's, keeping the pressure on.
 
Columbia then had two great looks at goal in the closing moments of the game. With just over two minutes remaining, Princeton was called for a foul, setting up John Denis from the right side of the net, just beyond the 18-yard box. The Columbia junior put his free kick on frame, but Schachner was there for the save.
 
After a header by Stevens was saved just under 30 seconds later, the Lions had their best look at an equalizer. A scramble in the box came out to the right side of goal, and on to the foot of Blake Willis. With four seconds remaining, Willis sent a shot towards net that hit the inside of the post, but bounced out, giving Princeton the 2-1 win.
 
Despite the two goals allowed, Castanheira had an impressive outing in net, saving five shots, and making it difficult for the Tigers offense on numerous crosses and free kick attempts.
 
Princeton out-shot Columbia 14-11, and also had an edge in fouls at 19-12 to go along with two yellow cards.
 
Columbia is back in action at home next Friday, October 13 at 5 p.m. against Dartmouth on ESPNU.