Men's Soccer | 9/2/2026 7:52:00 AM

LANCASTER, Pa. — Two lightning delays ultimately brought an early end to Rutgers–Newark men's soccer's season opener Tuesday night, with the second delay resulting in the cancellation of the match at halftime.

The contest was tied, 1-1, after 45 minutes of play. However, the match will officially be recorded as a no contest after failing to reach the NCAA-regulated 70-minute mark required for a match to be considered complete. There are currently no plans to resume the match.

Rutgers–Newark struck first in the 39th minute when Ali Celik found the back of the net to give the Scarlet Raiders a 1-0 lead.

The Diplomats answered just over five minutes later to even the score at 1-1 heading into halftime.

Rutgers–Newark will look to officially begin its season on Friday, September 4, when the Scarlet Raiders face Kalamazoo College at Swarthmore College.

For the latest news, updates, and information on Rutgers-Newark Athletics, visit rutgersnewarkathletics.com. Fans can also stay up to date by following the Scarlet Raiders on Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube.