ST. PAUL - The Bethel University men's soccer team suffered its first conference loss Saturday against St. Thomas, 2-0. The defensive battle was scoreless throughout most of the first half until St. Thomas scored on a penalty kick in the 43rd minute to break the ice. The Tommies second goal came later in the second period, their only shot on goal in the second half. Neither team was able to generate many shots as the totals stood at 9-2 at the end of the game in favor of UST. Jakob Bartels made three saves for the Royals, all in the first half.

The game is the first loss for the Royals since the opener against Simpson. The shutout also snaps Joshua de la Rosa's five consecutive game goal streak. Bethel now has a record of 4-2-1 with a 0-1-1 record in the young MIAC conference season. The Royals will be back in action Sunday as they host Finlinaia University at 2 p.m. at the Ona Orth Athletic Complex.