PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- A goal in the first minute was the difference as the UMass Lowell men's soccer team fell 4-0 to Providence in the season opener for both teams. The loss ends the River Hawks' run of four straight season-opening wins since the 2014 season. 

The Friars (1-0) added two more scores in the opening 45 minutes, and recorded the fourth in the 77th minute to pick up the victory. 

"We got off to a bad start," commented Head Coach Christian Figueroa. "There were two moments that really changed the game tonight, and both were completely in our control. We need to regroup and prepare for Monday. It's a long season ahead and we need to learn from this moment. 

Following Providence's opening goals, Roko Prsa (Sisak, Croatia) had his attempt to cut the deficit in half from the penalty spot in the 24th minute, but was denied by Providence's Austin Aviza. Moments later, the hosts' extended the lead to 3-0 with a tally from the spot of their own

The River Hawks (0-1) recorded seven shots, including three on target, but were unable to crack the scoreboard, with Prsa leading the attack with a pair of attempts. Patrick Gujic (Bjelovar, Croatia) made a pair of saves in the effort. 

UMass Lowell hosts Quinnipiac on September 2 at 5 p.m. in the home opener.