By: Nathan Zuercher, sports information assistant

BLUFFTON, Ohio - The Bluffton University men's soccer team hosted the Transylvania University Pioneers on a beautiful, spring Saturday afternoon. Despite a 1-0 lead at halftime, the Beavers were unable to hold off a talented Transylvania team as the Pioneers took a 4-1 decision on March 20. With the loss, Bluffton fell to 1-4-1 overall and 1-4-1 in the HCAC.

The opening half was a stellar 45 minutes for the Beavers, striking first blood in the match at the 36:57 mark on a goal from Maxwell Kennedy (Strongsville) following a Christian Parker (West Liberty/Urbana) cross. The Beavers were efficient in the first, scoring on one of their two shots, unlike the visitors who were unsuccessful on all 10. Corner kicks for the period were Transylvania four and none for Bluffton.

The second half was a stark contrast to opening period as the Pioneers cashed in four times. including three in a span of seven minutes late in the match. The scoring started at 51:45 mark and ended at the 81:48 mark.

Transylvania fired away with 31 shots, compared to Bluffton's four attempts. Corner kicks were 7-1 in favor of Transylvania while Bluffton had 13 more saves than pioneers (14-1). Sophomore keeper Tanner Newport (Hamilton, Va./Loudoun Valley) racked up 14 saves in the Saturday setback.

The men's squad will be back in action on Wednesday night when they travel to Franklin College looking to rebound off the tough loss. Kickoff in Indiana is slated for 7 p.m.

-BEAVERS-