Box Score

ARDEN HILLS, Minn. – A large crowd braved the rain on a chilly afternoon at Ona Orth Athletic Complex to watch the Bethel men's soccer team host #13 Wheaton College. Three first half goals and stingy play from their defense gave Wheaton the victory over Bethel, 4-0.
 
"Today was a very fun game of soccer," Royals coach Jeremy Iwaszkowiec said. "Wheaton are a phenomenal bunch and it was a special opportunity to host them. They are very deserving of their national reputation as a very, very good team. With that said, I am extremely proud of our effort today. I thought we battled well, created some chances, and easily could have put 1 or 2 in the back of the net. They scored on three brilliant shots and I have to applaud their efforts. Overall, it was great preparation for our upcoming MIAC season where we will face some equally challenging opponents."

The Royals started the game with tremendous energy but weren't able to get on the scoreboard thanks to a highlight save by Derek Babb after a Ryan Ness shot. Stephen Golz netted two impressive goals for Wheaton and Chad Musgraves scored just before the half to put Wheaton up 3-0 at halftime. An unassisted goal 10 minutes into the second half made Wheaton's lead 4-0, and that's how it would end. 
 
Bethel returns to .500 on the season with the loss, and they look to improve to 3-2 later this week. The Royals will travel to Northfield to open up Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) play against St. Olaf at 4 p.m.