Sept. 16, 2006

BLUFFTON, Ohio - The Bluffton University men's soccer team was held scoreless for the first time on Saturday, Sept. 16, by visiting and defending HCAC champion Transylvania University.

Following a hard fought first half that saw the visiting Pioneers generate dangerous chances but only lead 6-4 in shots on goal, they finally broke through in the 55th minute. Despite collecting 16 shots on the day, the Pioneers were limited to few good looks at the goal, with the majority being snuffed out by senior goalkeeper RYAN THOMAS (Jamestown/Greenview). Making numerous point blank saves in the second half, Thomas kept the Beavers on the verge of an upset until two late goals broke the hearts of the Bluffton faithful. 

Junior RAY VOELKER (Newbury/Newbury) nearly knotted the contest with a well placed, right-footed shot that the Transylvania keeper did well to push aside. The Pioneers sealed the deal with strikes from close range in the 73rd and 77th minutes.

Playing particularly well on the afternoon were BRANDON KINDELL (Kenton/Kenton), who roved all over the field in numerous positions, and BRANDON OLTERMAN (Camden/Preble Shawnee), who provided the intensity needed in critical junctures of the game.

While sporting a roster much deeper with talent than in recent years, the Beavers still struggled in the second half due to inexperience and injuries that slowed some of the regulars. Despite the loss, Bluffton pressed Transylvania to a degree previously unseen in the short history between the two schools. Inching closer to teams at the top of the conference, Bluffton University men's soccer players served notice for the future by battling competitively for ninety minutes with the league's elite team.

Bluffton returns to the pitch at home versus Oberlin on Wednesday, Sept. 20, at 4:30.