SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Senior back Kevin Owens (Boulder, CO) tallied the game-winning goal in the 62nd minute as visiting Babson College defeated No. 19 Western New England College 2-1 Saturday afternoon (Sept. 8) in a battle of two of the top men's soccer teams in the region at Suprenant Field.

The Beavers, who improved their record to 3-1, are ranked sixth in the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) New England Division III poll.

The Golden Bears, who previously won their first two outings by a similar 2-1 score, are ranked third in the regional poll.

After a scoreless opening half, Babson got on the board when senior midfielder Garrett Bates (Norwell, MA) netted his third goal of the season in the 47th minute. Junior Tim Winn (Sutton, MA) was credited with the assist.

Western New England College came back quickly tying the contest on the first goal of the season by junior forward Dale Totman (Conway, MA) at the 52:00 mark.

That set the stage for Owens' game-winner, which was assisted by senior midfielder Chris Schwartz (Guilford, CT).

Senior goalkeeper Chris Necklas (Guilford, CT) made four saves for the Beavers while sophomore Kyle Bak (Cumberland, RI) stopped one stop. Western New England College had a 10-4 shot advantage.