STEUBENVILLE, Ohio -- The brief rejuvenation of Heidelberg University's men's soccer season hit a roadblock on Wednesday afternoon away to Franciscan University.
The Berg (2-4-1) dropped to the non-conference Barons (6-1-1) by a final of 2-1.
After early Heidelberg pressure and a
Bryce Zeleznik shot that clattered off the post in the 12th minute, the Student Princes found themselves trailing in the 20th minute. A cross deflected off the crossbar and fell on the head of JP Bobak who centered for Sebastian Koehler. Koehler caught the ball off the bounce and a slight overhead kick evaded
John Gall's attempt to clear off the line.
The Barons doubled their lead just six minutes later. This time, Koehler turned provider as his pass was converted by Nick Miller.
The Berg got themselves back in the game early in the second half. First, Zeleznik once again saw his shot clank off the post in the 50th minute before five more shot attempts failed to convert. Finally in the 58th, the Barons were whistled for a handball in the penalty area.
Kyle Morton stepped up and converted the spot kick for his second goal in his last two games.
Even with five shots late in the match, The Student Princes could not overcome the deficit and fell 2-1.
Both teams took 20+ shots, but each keeper --
Ryan Newman and Brian Gaughn -- picked up just six saves.
The Student Princes will return home on Saturday, September 28 for a 2 p.m. kickoff vs. Defiance.
