MCKENZIE, Tenn. (11.13.09) - Friday the 13th certainly wasn't a good day for the number one ranked Bethel University men's soccer team. The Wildcats dominated a very physical game in just about every statistical category except on the scoreboard losing to the RedHawks of Martin Methodist College 2-1. It is the first loss for the Wildcats in 31 matches.
Bethel had a huge offensive advantage with 20 shots to Martin's three. Unfortunately, the ‘Cats could not get any in the net. The game was extremely physical with the RedHawks committing 24 fouls to Bethel's 14.
The first half ended deadlocked in a 0-0 tie. Bethel took eight shots in the first while denying Martin a single shot.
But, the RedHawks were able to take a 1-0 lead in the 57th minute as Bethel's defense was too aggressive allowing Tiago Reichart to get behind and lob a shot over Bethel keeper, Massimo Collu-Marchese. Just three minutes later, the RedHawks' Reichart scored again for a 2-0 lead. Bethel continued to pressure offensively and broke through with :34 left in the match as Daniel Green headed the ball in the top right hand corner. Martin was able to keep the ball away from Bethel negating a chance to tie.
Bethel is 14-1-3 on the season. It was announced Sunday evening that the Wildcats received the #1 at-large bid to the NAIA National Tournament and will host a first round game.
