Yale gave one of the most storied programs in college soccer all it could handle on Saturday. No. 15 Akron, though, got a goal from Dyson Clapier in the 66th minute to escape with a 1-0 victory over the Bulldogs before a crowd of 1,246 at FirstEnergy Stadium.
 
Yale had opportunities after Clapier's goal but couldn't get the equalizer.

The Bulldogs outshot the Zips 7-4 in the second half.

"We are disappointed with the result and felt we were good enough to get more from it, but Akron is a very good team and it's a really tough place to play," said Kylie Stannard, the 5K Corral Head Coach of the Bulldogs. "We had some first-half jitters, but the guys competed very well and gave us a chance to settle in during the second half. I thought we kept the ball a little better and made Akron have to work a little harder. We were always dangerous in transition and set pieces and certainly created some really good chances where we can be a little more clinical."
 
Goalkeeper Elian Haddock made six saves for Yale.
 
Will Meyer made one save for Akron.
 
Since 2007, the Zips have posted the highest winning percentage in the nation  with an overall record of 219-58-34. Akron made 12 straight appearances in the NCAA Tournament (2007-18), earning a first-round bye in eight seasons. The Zips have advanced to the NCAA's Round of 16 in eight of the last 13 years. Since 1961, the Zips have advanced to the NCAA postseason 33 times, including 17 of the past 20 seasons. Akron captured the 2018 and 2010 NCAA Championships and advanced to the national championship game in 2009. 

"This is the level we aspire to be so it's important to play these tough games so we can learn what it takes," Stannard said.
 
The Bulldogs have one more test before the start of Ivy League play when they host UMass on Tuesday night. Kickoff at Reese Stadium is slated for 7 p.m.