BOSTON, Mass. — #4 Boston University defeated #5 Bucknell 3-1 on Saturday in the 2025 Patriot League Championship match before 242 spectators. The Terriers controlled the second half with three unanswered goals to secure the conference title, bouncing back from a 0-2 loss to Lafayette just one week prior.
Alex Bonnington opened scoring for Boston U. in the 21st minute, assisted by Giuseppe Bagnato. Drew Roskos equalized for Bucknell moments later with a strike assisted by Collin Sullivan. The teams remained deadlocked through halftime despite Boston U. generating more attacking opportunities, with both sides recording five shots on goal in the opening 45 minutes.
The second half proved decisive. Bonnington restored Boston U.'s lead in the 59th minute, assisted by Sebastian Otero. Ethan Gill sealed the victory with a goal in the 77th minute, also assisted by Bonnington, who finished as the match's most dangerous player. Bucknell pressed for a response but could not break through Boston U.'s defense down the stretch.
Boston U. dominated possession in the final period, limiting Bucknell to limited chances despite the visitors' aggressive substitutions. The Terriers' defensive adjustments at halftime proved effective, with goalkeeper making four saves compared to Bucknell's two. Boston U. also matched Bucknell's three corner kicks while creating more dangerous opportunities from open play.
Bucknell made five substitutions at the halftime break in an attempt to shift momentum, removing Zane Domsohn, Jakub Samelko, Cade Whitmire, Nate Coughlin, and Mason Lillis. The tactical changes failed to generate the desired effect as Boston U.'s midfield controlled the tempo throughout the second half. Jack Lucas and Cohen Weaver each received yellow cards for Bucknell during the first half, while Boston U. avoided disciplinary issues entirely.
The loss marked Bucknell's first defeat after an unbeaten stretch that included a 1-0 road victory over Navy and a scoreless draw with Loyola Maryland. Boston U.'s win extended the Terriers' recent form, following a 2-1 home victory over Holy Cross midweek. The championship result demonstrated Boston U.'s ability to execute under pressure against a ranked opponent.