DEFIANCE, Ohio - The Bluffton University men's soccer team made the short trip to Defiance for the Heartland Conference opener on Tuesday, March 2, 2021. The bitter cold and high winds did not dampen anyone's spirits as the two rivals were more than happy to brave the elements, playing their first varsity match in over 16 months! Bluffton dropped a heartbreaker when the Jackets found the back of the net early in the second overtime period. The Beavers stand 0-1, while Defiance opens its season with a 1-0 mark.

Bluffton held the home team at bay for over 100 minutes before Jarren Castro found the back of the net at the 102:16 mark. He collected a rebound and notched the game winner as Defiance earned the victory.

Defiance more than doubled up Bluffton, finishing with a 13-6 advantage in shots, including 5-2 on frame. The Beavers were whistled for two more fouls (14-12), while DC forced five more corner kicks (7-2). 

Sophomore Tanner Newport (Hamilton, Va./Loudoun Valley) put up a valiant effort with four saves and over 102 scoreless minutes between the pipes, but Bluffton's offense was unable to put it in the back of the net. Senior Christian Parker (Urbana/West Liberty) led the Beavers with two shot attempts off the bench.

Bluffton will return to action on Saturday, March 6, when the Beavers welcome perennial-power Rose-Hulman to the Sears Complex for Senior Day. Kick-off is slated for 3:30 p.m. following the Bluffton women's matchup with the Engineers. 

-BEAVERS-