DULUTH, Minn. – The Bethel University men's soccer team generated opportunities throughout Tuesday afternoon's MIAC matchup at the College of St. Scholastica but came up short in a 3-1 loss at Kenny Harkins Field.
St. Scholastica opened the scoring in the 14th minute, but the Royals continued to apply pressure throughout the first half. Bethel generated four shots and earned five corner kicks before heading into halftime trailing 1-0.
The Royals increased their offensive pressure after the break, recording eight second-half shots and seven corner kicks as they searched for the equalizer.
St. Scholastica extended its advantage in the 67th minute, putting Bethel in a 2-0 deficit with just over 23 minutes remaining.
Bethel continued to push forward and broke through late. Owen Burshem found the back of the net in the 88th minute off an assist from William Colbert, cutting the deficit to 2-1. The goal marked Burshem's first of the season.
The Saints responded just 22 seconds later with their third goal of the afternoon, bringing the match to its 3-1 final.
Bethel finished with a 12-11 advantage in total shots and put seven attempts on goal compared to four for St. Scholastica. The Royals also generated a 12-3 advantage in corner kicks, including a 7-0 edge in the second half.
St. Scholastica's goalkeeper made six saves as Bethel continued to create opportunities throughout the match.
The setback moves the Royals to 3-9-2 overall and 0-4-2 in MIAC play.
Up Next: Bethel continues MIAC play Saturday, traveling to Hamline University for a 3:30 p.m. kickoff.
