Gray, tallying his second goal and first game-winning score of the season, took advantage of a rebound situation near the Hanover College goal to post the eventual decider in the 2012 Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference opener for both sides. The host Panthers, falling to 4-4-2 overall, attempted to find the equalizer throughout the remainder of the contest.

Spartan senior goalkeeper Grant Noakes (LaPorte, Ind.), earning his second successive shutout in the face of an 18-5 shots advantage for HC, held firm with eight saves to preserve the 1-0 decision. Noakes increased his current scoreless streak in net for Coach David Good's squad (3-8 overall, 1-0 HCAC) to 203 minutes and 14 seconds with his seventh career shutout.

The Black and Gold return to Spartan Field Tuesday, Oct. 2, when Franklin College visits for a 4 p.m. start.