ARDEN HILLS, Minn. – The Bethel University men's soccer team battled back from a two-goal deficit Wednesday afternoon, scoring twice in the second half before ultimately falling 3-2 to Augsburg University in MIAC action at Ona Orth Athletic Complex.
Augsburg opened the scoring in the 10th minute when Liam Paradiso found the back of the net off an assist from Gio Casias, giving the Auggies an early 1-0 advantage.
The Royals continued to generate offensive opportunities throughout the opening half, outshooting Augsburg 8-6, but entered halftime trailing by one.
Augsburg extended its lead early in the second half when Caleb Ibarra scored in the 47th minute, putting Bethel in a 2-0 deficit.
The Royals responded with an impressive offensive surge, scoring twice in less than three minutes to even the match.
Tadeo Magana sparked the comeback in the 59th minute, scoring his sixth goal of the season off an assist from Roy Kyle to cut the deficit to 2-1.
Just over two minutes later, Solomon Straub delivered the equalizer in the 62nd minute, finding the back of the net for his second goal of the season and bringing the Royals level at 2-2.
Augsburg regained the lead in the 73rd minute when Gideon Lubin scored off an assist from Dailan Bangu, putting the Auggies back in front 3-2.
Bethel continued to push forward in search of another equalizer but was unable to break through before the final whistle.
The Royals finished with a 17-13 advantage in total shots, including a 9-7 edge in the second half. Both teams put five attempts on goal, while Bethel also held a 9-5 advantage in corner kicks.
Defensively, goalkeeper Griffin Blokker recorded two saves, one in each half, while Augsburg's goalkeeper finished with three.
The loss moves Bethel to 4-10-2 overall and 1-5-2 in MIAC play.
Up Next: Bethel remains at home Saturday, Oct. 24, hosting St. Olaf College in MIAC action at Ona Orth Athletic Complex. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m.
