Reading, Pa. (Oct. 28, 2014) - The nation's No. 1 Messiah College (16-0-1, 6-0-1) scored a goal on a set play late in the second overtime for a 1-0 win over Alvernia University (9-7-2, 3-3-1) Tuesday evening in Commonwealth Conference men's soccer action at Alvernia.

Brian Ramirez curled a free kick from 25 yards out near the left sideline to a crashing Jeremy Payne who deposited the header for the game-winner.

The Falcons held a 16-6 advantage in shots for the game.  Alvernia freshman Zach Rider made nine saves on the night--including a brilliant, leaping punch to his right on a dangerous free kick struck by Ramirez midway through the first overtime period.  Messiah's Brandon West needed five saves to record the shutout.

Alvernia senior Shawn Laskey and freshman Devin Wilt put shots on frame in the first half and West was up to the challenge both times.  The Crusaders generated some pressure early in the second half, but again West was there to deny senior Josh Wollaston.

Rider made six of his nine saves in the second half to keep the Falcons at bay, and had the one save against Ramirez in extra time.

The Crusaders wrap up the regular season on Saturday hosting Hood College in an important final game.  Both teams enter the weekend tied for fourth in the league standings.  A win for either team and they host the 4/5 play-in game on Tuesday.  A loss and they will need help.  Widener (9 pts) and Lebanon Valley (8 pts) both sit on the outside looking in with one game to go, but could jump the loser of Alvernia/Hood with a 3-point win.

#1 Messiah 1, Alvernia 0 (2OT)