The Virginia Wesleyan University men's soccer team (3-1-1) came up just short in a hard-fought 2-1 match against Hampden-Sydney College (4-0-0) on Saturday afternoon at Foster Field at the Tassos Paphitis Soccer Complex.
Zach Bittler was active in the attack throughout the opening period, working to generate opportunities, while goalkeeper Ben Haynes made several important stops to keep the match tight as both teams went into halftime separated by a single goal.
Virginia Wesleyan answered quickly in the second half, as Bittler found the back of the net in the 48th minute for his fourth goal of the season, bringing the match level. The Marlins continued to create chances and press forward, but Hampden-Sydney capitalized on a penalty kick late in the half to take the lead.
VWU recorded 12 shots, including four on target, and earned six corner kicks while pushing hard for a late equalizer. Haynes anchored the defense with six saves, showcasing composure and resilience in goal. The match was physical throughout, with both sides finishing with 11 fouls.
Virginia Wesleyan returns to action on
Sunday, September 14, at 1:00 p.m., when they host Rutgers-Camden at Foster Field at the Tassos Paphitis Soccer Complex in Virginia Beach.
