BUENA VISTA, Va. - Coming off one of the more important wins in recent memory for the program, the Southern Virginia University men's soccer team nearly replicated the success of last Saturday against North Carolina Wesleyan.

However, the Knights couldn't hold on to an early lead and dropped a 2-1 decision to the Battling Bishops for their first loss in league play.  

After fending off several attacks from their opponents in the first 15 minutes, the Knights found the scoresheet first for the third consecutive game.

After securing a corner kick, Brock Hester floated a cross to the far side of the box and found the foot of Porter Whitlock who one-touched a shot through a maze of defenders to find the back of the net.

It was a huge momentum boost for the home crowd against the USA South's top-ranked team in the preseason poll.

The Bishops would eventually return the favor before the end of the half, tying the game at one after a nice solo effort up the right side.

In the second half, Southern Virginia managed to control much of the play and generated quality scoring chances, but that didn't stop the Bishops from making the most of their opportunities. In the 61st minute, an attacker slipped by the Knights defenders and drilled a shot past the outstretched arm of the keeper.

Now trailing, Southern Virginia sent several shots towards the opposing goal. They outshot their opponents 6-4 in the second half and attempted three corners, but to no avail.

Eventually the final buzzer sounded to hand Southern Virginia its first conference loss of the season. Troy Chamberlain added three saves in the effort and Kenyon Grange registered two shots.  

Looking Ahead

The Knights will look to regroup in their final non-conference game of the season. They'll host Guilford College on Wednesday, October 8th at 4:00 PM.

For the most up-to-date information and details on the team, visit knightathletics.com and follow @knightmsoccer on Instagram.