Waterville, Maine - The Mules opened their season today against a formidable NESCAC opponent in Tufts. This was a Jumbos squad coming off back-to-back NCAA semifinal appearances. While playing against strong competition, the Mules were ultimately defeated 27-9. 

The first half saw Colby grab a quick 1-0 lead as Max Solmssen scored off a feed from Henry Popko not even two minutes into the game. However, Tufts quickly answered outshooting the Mules 39-12, evident in the 14-3 first-half lead. Colby also received goal contributions from Jake Surete and another one from Solmssen. 

The second half saw players who will get less time as both teams see their seasons progress. The Mules had little more success against the Jumbo's second and third choice options as they doubled their shot totals from the first half and put up six more goals. Other statistical highlights from the second half included going three for four on extra-man opportunities and 12 more saves to give them 24 on the game. Colby found more offensive output from Jack Goller, who had a second-half hat trick—the other three goals came from Popko, Matt Stein, and Nolan Zusi. Matt Suffredini led the Mules with 21 saves. 

Colby returns to the field Wednesday at 7 pm as they take on St. Joseph's.