ARDEN HILLS, Minn. – It was a tale of two halves for the Bethel University men's soccer team, but unfortunately they could not capitalize on opportunities after Concordia scored three goals in the first 20 minutes of the match. Concordia outshot Bethel 7-2 in the first half, while the Royals outshot the Cobbers 7-1 in the second half.

“We came out flat and slow and conceded two silly, set piece goals,” said Royals coach Jeremy Iwaszkowiec. “We just dug ourselves too big of a hole but I was really happy with the second half. We were a little unfortunate to not get a goal back.”

The Cobbers three goals came at the 4:17, 13:58, and 20:02 marks. Jared Rice scored the second and third goals for Concordia. The Royals came out inspired in the second half and had several good scoring opportunities within the first five minutes. Kolten Fischer (Jr., Shoreview, Minn.) had two shots on goal while Ryan Ness (Fr., Elk River, Minn.) and Martin Manocchio (Jr., Austin, Minn.) also had shots on goal for the Royals but could not find the back of the net.

“Soccer is a 90 minute game and we are struggling to put a full 90 minutes together,” coach Iwaszkowiec said.

The Royals will travel to Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota next Saturday to take on the Knights. Carleton is in a battle for a MIAC playoff spot and is in contention for the MIAC regular season title. They are currently in third place at 5-1-1 with 16 points, behind co-leaders St. Thomas and Gustavus who have 19 points.