The Bruins battled the in-state opponent Newberry University, but couldn't quite overcome an early deficit, and lose 5-3 at Alumni Stadium.
The first half began with a nightmare start for the Bruins with miscommunication in its back line that led to the Wolves scoring twice in the first five minutes of the match. Even after the Bruins found their grip on the game, Newberry continued to attack. In the 31st minute, the Wolves were able to tack on another goal putting the Bruins in a 3-0 hole. The Bruins were able to answer back at the end of the half with a goal by Jackson Reinhard that gave the Bruins momentum for several more opportunities to close the first half. Unfortunately, they couldn't find the back of the net any more so the halftime score was 3-1.
The Bruins began the second half with the momentum they gained in the first. The confidence was soaring, and it felt like another Bruins goal was inevitable. That goal came in the 50th minute of the match by Solomon Leaman, and the Bruins were right back into the match only down 3-2.
Newberry was able to contain that momentum and settle back in. The Wolves scored two goals in less than a minute in the 63rd minute to extend their lead back to three goals. Even then, the Bruins continued to fight. In the 73rd minute, Will Hotchkin was able to juke the goalkeeper and slide it in for a goal to bring the Bruins back within two. The Bruins had chances to make it closer throughout the final 15 minutes but came up empty. The final score was 5-3.
The Bruins will now look towards their road trip to Jacksonville, Florida this weekend for the first region match of the season against Trinity College of Jacksonville. They play on Saturday at 2:00 p.m.
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