The Hamilton College men's soccer team opened its NESCAC season Saturday afternoon, dropping a 2-0 decision to visiting Bates at Love Field.

The Continentals, who outshot the Bobcats 8-3, fell to 0-2-0 overall on the season. Bates picked up its second win in as many games.

The Bobcats scored a goal in each half, getting on the board less than three minutes into regulation when Luis Pereira converted a pass from Nate Merchant for the early lead. Offensive pressure with 14 minutes left in regulation led to a second Bates goal as Peabo Knoth took advantage of a Hamilton clear attempt and sent a long shot into the Continental net.

Sam Polito stopped all three shots he faced to earn the shutout.

Hamilton returns to action Tuesday, traveling to SUNY Polytechnic for a non-conference game.