10/12/2024 Greenville, IL- The Westminster College men's soccer team faced a challenging match on Saturday afternoon, falling 2-0 to Greenville University in Greenville, Illinois. The loss brings the Blue Jays to 2-8-2 overall and 1-1-2 in the St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SLIAC). 

Greenville seized the momentum early in the first half. In the 20th minute, the Panthers broke through the Westminster defense to score a goal, giving them a 1-0 lead. The Blue Jays worked to regain their footing, but Greenville struck again in the 31st minute.  

Despite the early setbacks, Westminster regrouped after halftime and displayed increased intensity. Jack Hughes led the offensive efforts with three shots, including one on target. Noah Naumann added two shots, one of which was on goal, while Adam Luetkemeyer and Travis Bieg each contributed a shot on goal. However, Greenville's goalkeeper recorded four saves to maintain the shutout. 

Defensively, goalkeeper Hunter Deeken tallied three saves for the Blue Jays. Westminster's defense tightened up in the second half, limiting Greenville to just four shots after allowing seven in the first half.  

Greenville edged Westminster in total shots, 11-10, and in shots on goal, 6-4. The Blue Jays earned two corner kicks compared to the Panthers' five. Despite being narrowly outshot, Westminster's inability to convert their opportunities was a deciding factor in the match. 

The Blue Jays will look to bounce back as they return home to Kent & Judith Mueller Stadium to face their next opponent, Lyon College, on October 17th. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30pm.