After four straight road and out-of-conference games, the American International College men's soccer team returns home for league play Tuesday night when it hosts Merrimack College at 7 p.m. on Abdow Field.

The Yellow Jackets began the season 2-0, with wins against Barton College and the University of the District of Columbia, but fell in its two most recent games in shutouts by Mercy College and the New York Institute of Technology.

"When I scheduled the non-conference games, it was done in a way to test our players and to get some answers," said AIC head coach Luke Perry. "I am confident to say that, despite the two recent losses, we are now a much stronger team. We have identified areas of improvement and we have adapted accordingly.

"My main focus has always been conference play, so for me, this is the beginning of our season, and I am much more confident now having witnessed the highs and lows over the past two weeks."

In their quest to get back on track, the Yellow Jackets will meet a 3-1 Merrimack College squad, whose only loss came to No. 8-ranked LIU Post. The Warriors present a difficult test, having held opponents to just one goal twice, and recording a shutout once. Goalkeeper Tyler Packett has allowed just one goal in over 201 minutes of play and has posted a .900 save percentage.

AIC fell to the then-No. 10Warriors last season by a score of 4-1.

"Merrimack is always a tough game," Perry said. "They're a strong physical team with some good players. I have seen them play a few times, but they have not seen how we will be playingso I am looking forward to it."

Moreover, Perry said Tuesday night presents a strong opportunity to continue building up the team's determination.

"Our main focus is to stay composed and have confidence," Perry said. "This is a talented group of players, and sometimes as a player you need to be reminded of that after a few losses."