BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – The Bluefield University men's soccer team fell to Pikeville, 4-2, in an Appalachian Athletic Conference match held at the East River Soccer Complex Wednesday evening.

Both teams had scoring chances in the first 29 minutes but were unable to capitalize until BU (1-5, 0-2 AAC) struck in the 30th minute.

Junior forward Juan Soto converted on a deflected ball in the 18-yard box to give the Rams a 1-0 lead that carried into halftime. The Rams' defense held Pikeville (4-2-1, 3-0-1 AAC) to five shots in the opening frame, with junior goalkeeper Canaan Newman recording three saves.

The Bears responded quickly in the second half, scoring in the 49th and 51st minutes to take a 2-1 lead.

Then, in the 52nd minute, freshman forward Adan Chavez was denied by the UPike goalkeeper before burying the rebound to tie the match at 2-2.

Both defenses held strong until late in the half, but two Pikeville goals in the closing minutes sealed the 4-2 win.

Soto's goal in the 30th minute was his first of the season and third of his career. Chavez's tally marked his fifth of the season, as he continues to lead Bluefield with 10 points. Newman played all 90 minutes in goal and finished with five saves.

The Rams will stay home to host Columbia International at the East River Soccer Complex on Saturday at 3:00 p.m.