BLUEFIELD, Va. – The Bluefield University men's soccer team dropped a 3-1 decision to Milligan University Wednesday afternoon at the East River Soccer Complex.
The Rams opened the scoring in the 23' when freshman forward Aubrey Meekins Jr. found the back of the net, with sophomore midfielder Diego Valenzuela and senior forward Sebastian Armijos providing the assists. BU held the 1-0 advantage through the remainder of the opening half despite Milligan putting nine shots toward the Bluefield goal.
Senior goalkeeper Canaan Newman came up with several key saves to preserve the lead, including a stop on a Buffaloes shot in the 54' and another in the 67'. Milligan also missed a penalty kick in the 59', which was saved by Newman.
The Rams continued to hold their advantage until the 75', when Milligan leveled the match. Less than two minutes later, Milligan scored again to take a 2-1 lead.
Bluefield continued to look for an equalizer, with sophomore forward Ethan Ruiz forcing a save in the 69' and freshman midfielder Leo Bascope putting two shots on goal during the final 15 minutes. Bascope's final attempt came in the closing seconds, but Milligan's goalkeeper made the save.
Milligan added an insurance goal in the 88' to close out the scoring.
Newman finished with six saves for the Rams, who recorded six shots and four shots on goal. Milligan finished with 23 shots, including 12 in the second half.
Bluefield returns to action Saturday, traveling to Johnson for a 6 p.m. kickoff.
