By Nick Porter

BRIDGEWATER, Va.-After coming off of an eight-point victory last Friday, the Southern Virginia University men's soccer team struggled to produce points in their road matchup at Bridgewater College, falling by a 2-1 margin Tuesday evening in Bridgewater, Virginia.

The Eagles (3-6) put their first point up in the 17th minute against junior goalkeeper Efren Gutierrez, and scored again 17 minutes later to take a 2-0 lead at the half. Their lead would be enough, even after a goal in the 64th minute by freshman forward Carter Woods.

Woods' unassisted goal was his only shot of the night, and one of three shots on goal from the Knight offense.

"It was unfortunate we gave up the two early goals in the first half which cost us the game," said Southern Virginia head coach Josh Patiño. "I'm proud of how we played in the second half to win the final 45 minutes and keep battling. We weren't discouraged at the end of the game because we felt we could get back in the game. It was the best soccer we've played so far, so it was a positive experience despite the loss."

Junior forward Erick Gutierrez had the other two shots on goal for Southern Virginia's offense. Colby Briggs would add two shots, and Josh Smith, in his first game back from injury since September 5th, added a shot.

With a 2-7 record, the Knights enter conference play this Saturday, Sept. 27, at Salisbury University and will be at home next Tuesday, Sept. 30, in a non-conference match with Emory & Henry at 6 p.m. at The Fields.