RIVER FALLS, Wis. – The Bethel University men's soccer team generated a season-high 29 shots Monday afternoon but was unable to turn its offensive pressure into enough goals, falling 3-1 to UW-River Falls in non-conference action at Ramer Field.
The Royals controlled much of the attacking play in the opening half, outshooting the Falcons 16-3 and earning four corner kicks. Despite the pressure, UW-River Falls struck first in the 42nd minute to take a 1-0 advantage into halftime.
The Falcons extended their lead in the 56th minute, but Bethel responded almost immediately.
Just 41 seconds later, Tadeo Magana converted a penalty kick to cut the deficit to 2-1. The goal marked Magana's third of the season and put the Royals back within one with more than 30 minutes remaining.
Bethel continued to push forward in search of the equalizer, recording 13 more shots in the second half and putting five on goal. UW-River Falls, however, added another goal in the 75th minute to extend its advantage to 3-1.
The Royals continued creating opportunities down the stretch but were unable to cut into the deficit before the final whistle.
Bethel finished with a commanding 29-8 advantage in total shots and put nine attempts on goal compared to four for UW-River Falls. The Royals also held an 8-6 edge in corner kicks.
The Falcons' goalkeeper made eight saves to keep Bethel from adding to Magana's second-half penalty kick.
The setback moves the Royals to 3-7-1 overall while remaining 0-2-1 in MIAC play.
Up Next: Bethel returns to MIAC action Wednesday, traveling to Carleton College for a 4 p.m. kickoff in Northfield.
