Middlebury began defense of its national title with a 2-1 non-conference win at in-state foe Castleton. The Spartans opened the scoring in the 49th minute of play when Greg Klopfer fed Josh Costa for his second goal of the season. Costa was able to redirect the pass just over the head of Middlebury keeper, Brian Bush.

Middlebury answered in the 60th minute as Corey Moffat sent a header just out the reach of Castleton's Mike Anthony. Baer Fisher served a corner kick that found Moffat waiting at six-yard line, before he redirected for his first goal of the season. Middlebury rookie Tyler Macnee scored his first collegiate goal, the game-winner, in the 85th minute from seven yards out. Stephen Hart made a centering pass to Macnee who made one touch past Anthony.

Anthony finished the game with five saves in the loss, including one on a Middlebury penalty kick, while Chris Mulholland also came up with two huge team saves to keep the Spartans in the contest.

Bush made two saves to earn his first win of the season as the Panthers play their home-opener on Saturday at 2:00 vs. Amherst.