UNION, N.J. – A first half goal proved to be the difference as Kean University edged the Centenary University men's soccer team 1-0 on Friday night in the season opener for both squads.

Both teams had their chances early, including a shot from the Cyclones' Julian Lippner that the Kean keeper was able to get a hand on.

The Cyclones and Cougars continued to battle throughout the midfield and on both ends of the field.

Kean finally broke through at the 36:54 as Gabe Llanos was able to sneak one just past Andrew Tarkazikis in the Centenary goal.

Brian Osorio launched one into the offensive end on a long ball in the 43rd minute but Kean's keeper knocked it away.

The home team took the 1-0 lead into the half.

Thomas Edge and Lippner each put shots on goal in the second half for the Cyclones, but Kean's Dillon Konzelmann came up with the save on both shots.

The Cyclones continued to push for chances but Kean was able to hold off the visitors for the 1-0 victory.

Tarkazikis made two saves in the loss for the Cyclones. Dominic Ridge started and made two first half saves in the win for Kean. Konzelmann made two stops in the second half.

The Cyclones have a quick turnaround as they are back at it on Saturday, Sept. 3 when take on William Paterson as part of the Kean Tournament. That game is set to get underway at 5 p.m. on Saturday.