PLYMOUTH, N.H. -  The New England College men's soccer team opened the 2026 campaign, earning a 1-0 road victory over the Plymouth State Panthers Tuesday evening.  

The Pilgrims struck early, taking a 1-0 lead when freshman Ethan Zuniga (Wallingford, Conn.) found the back of the net for his first collegiate goal. Plymouth State responded with pressure of its own, but senior goalkeeper Lukas Tate (South Jordan, Utah) turned away the Panthers' chances.

The 'Grims continued to generate opportunities, with graduate Anthony Aguiar (Gilford, N.H.) and senior Jack LaBroad (East Kingston, N.H.) putting shots on frame, but Panthers goalkeeper Bryant Amaral made the saves as NEC carried a 1-0 lead into halftime. 

Plymouth State came out aggressively in the second half, applying pressure and firing several shots that were stopped the NEC defense and senior goalkeeper Matt Guzman (San Bernardino, Calif.). LaBroad and senior Jackson Souther (Weare, N.H.) looked to extend the 'Grims lead, but the Panther defense stood firm. Plymouth State looked for the equalizer late down the stretch, but the NEC defense denied their chances to secure the season-opening win. 

Zuniga scored the lone goal for the 'Grims, while Tate recorded four saves along with three saves from Guzman in relief. 

NEC continues their non-conference slate Saturday when they host the University of Maine, Presque Isle at Don Melander Field. Kickoff is set for 12:00 PM.

For continuing coverage of New England College Athletics, visit athletics.nec.edu and follow the Pilgrims on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.