North Newton, Kan. - Falcon Men's Soccer fell short in a rival match against Bethel College, losing 2-1 this afternoon (Sept. 28).

Bethel took control of the game early, with Filip Maksimovic opening the scoring in the 20th minute. Maksimovic's solo effort put the Threshers on the board. Just four minutes later, Lucas Pardo extended Bethel's lead to 2-0 with another unassisted goal which put Friends on the back foot before halftime.

Falcons responded with more urgency in the second half creating several chances. Perseverance paid off in the 27th minute when Caique Pereira scored, cutting the deficit to 2-1 with a well placed shot from outside the box. However, despite their best efforts, Friends was unable to find an equalizer.

Bethel's defense led by goalkeeper Kazimir Kromwijk, preformed well with Kromwijk making seven saves to keep the Threshers in front. On the other side, Friends' Arturo Pombo-Palomero also had a strong performance recording six saves to limit Bethel's attack.

The Falcons outshot Bethel 15 to 13 and had the advantage and had a 5-4 edge in corner kicks, but Bethel's early goals proved the final score.

Friends record falls to 1-2 in conference play, while Bethel is now 2-1 in the KCAC. The Falcons will next face University of Saint Mary in Leavenworth, Kansas on Wednesday, October 2.