SPRINGFIELD, MASS.9/8/11 – The Keene State College men's soccer team played  to a scoreless 0-0 double –overtime draw against Springfield College in a non-conference clash at Brock-Affleck Field on Thursday night.  The game, originally scheduled to be played in Keene on Wednesday, was moved to Springfield due to unplayable field conditions at Owl Athletic Complex.

Keene State now stands at 1-1-1 while Springfield moves to 2-0-1 on the year.

The Owls have scored just one goal in their first three games.  "We need to find a way to crank up our offense," said KSC Coach Ron Butcher. 

On the positive side, KSC has posted shutouts in two of its three games.  "The back-four did a great job," especially freshman Nate Banas."

The Owls held a 14-9 advantage in shots, including a 5-0 advantage over the Pride in the double overtime session. Springfield held a slight 3-2 edge in corner kicks in the contest.

The best scoring opportunity for either team in the first half was produced by Springfield with 1:15 left. Off a David Chessen corner kick, Drew Sommer redirected a shot that was headed just inside the left post. However, Keene State defender Kevin Gomes (Halifax, Mass.) was stationed on the goal line and cleared away the attempt to keep the game scoreless.

Springfield produced another prime scoring chance in the 60th minute off another set play. Danny Amato sent a bending free kick into the box, only to have John Mankus's header clang off the cross bar.

Neither team could find the back of the net in either overtime period as the game finished in a draw.

Making his first start of the season, Paul Blackmer (Boylston, Mass.) made two saves in goal for Keene State, while Brett Bascom tallied four saves for Springfield. It was Blackmer's fifth career shutout. 

It was the second scoreless tie in as many seasons for the Owls, who played Salem State to a 0-0 stalemate on Oct. 6, 2010.

Keene State is at Wheaton College on Saturday (1p.m.).