MEN’S SOCCER UNABLE TO OVERCOME FAST START BY BULLDOGS, DROPS HOME MATCH VERSUS CONCORDIA

MITCHELL, S.D. – The Dakota Wesleyan University men's soccer team suffered a 5-1 home loss versus conference rival Concordia University on Saturday from the Pepsi-Cola Soccer Complex in Mitchell, S.D.

 Concordia, who recorded 14 shots in the first period, jumped out to a quick 2-0 lead early in the match with goals in the 7^th and 11^th minute, respectively.

 A shot by Anthony Acosta (Grand Island, Neb.) midway through the period attempted to ignite the DWU attack, though the strike on goal was saved and the score stalled at 2-0.

 The Bulldogs (5-5-1, 3-2-0 GPAC) meanwhile extended its lead to 3-0 late in the first half with a goal in the 42 minute and carried the three-goal advantage into the locker room.

 Despite a goal to open up the second period by CUNE, Tiger (2-9-0, 1-3-0 GPAC) senior Grant Pierce (Safford, Ariz.) found the back of the net in the 56^th minute trimming the score to 4-1 early on. Pierce was assisted by Blue and Gray midfielder Rocky Guevara (Norfolk, Neb.) as Dakota Wesleyan looked to capture the momentum.

 Roberto Gerardo Romero (Lynwood, Calif.) and Pierce struck shots on goal later midway through the second half, however, Concordia furthered its lead to 5-1 in the 76^th minute. The Bulldogs held on for the 5-1 win and secured the road victory thanks to 23 shots in the match.

 DWU goalkeepers Hunter Birozy (Norco, Calif.) and Garrett Douglas (Colorado Springs, Colo.) combined for seven saves in the net while Pierce led the way with multiple shots.

 Pierce and the Tigers return to the pitch next versus Northwestern College in Great Plains Athletic Conference play at 7:15 p.m. on Wednesday in Orange City, Iowa.