FAYETTEVILLE, N.C.— In the first-ever meeting between the two programs, the Montreat College men's soccer team was defeated by Methodist University Wednesday evening via a 2-0 final score at Duggins Soccer Stadium. Montreat fell to 0-4-0 on the season after the loss, while Methodist improved its record to 2-1-0 with the victory.
 
The first half saw the Monarchs establish an early lead as they converted a penalty kick in just the 12^th minute. Merely 24 seconds later, the home side followed up its initial tally with another goal. Despite the swift setback, Adrian Torres steadied the Cavaliers' defense as the half progressed by making critical saves, including a stop at 21:47 and another save at 38:48. Thanks to his efforts, the visitors kept their deficit manageable at the end of the frame. Emilio Ruiz and Predrag Grbovic each tested Methodist's goalkeeper with shots on target, but both Cavs' scoring opportunities were denied.
 
The second period saw Montreat's defensive efforts come to the forefront as Torres made several additional saves to keep his side in contention. In the 68^th minute, Torres denied back-to-back strikes, maintaining the pressure on the home team. Despite a strong defensive showing and several attempts on goal, including a shot from Andres Arrieta in the 73^rd minute, the Cavaliers were unable to convert opportunities into scores, concluding the game with a 2-0 deficit.
 
Overall, Torres made six saves during the match, playing a full 90 minutes in goal. Ruiz contributed offensively with one shot on goal. Grbovic also recorded a shot on target from the midfield position. Braian Velasquez managed to notch one shot on frame as a substitute, adding to the team's offensive efforts.
 
Methodist's defense recorded a shutout via a four-save performance. Montreat attempted five shots, four on goal, throughout the evening compared to the hosts' 14 tries and eight attempts on target. The Monarchs also registered one more corner kick (8-7).
 
"Tonight was a tough game," said head coach Michael Bruce. "We didn't show up to play in the first half but showed much more fight in the second half. We now must put this poor start behind us and look forward to starting conference play on Saturday. It's a chance at a fresh start for us, and we want to show that we can compete well this season."
 
The next challenge for the Cavs comes on Sept. 6 as they travel to Cleveland, Ga., to face Truett McConnell University in the squad's Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) opener. Kickoff is set for 4 p.m.