Freshman Ethan Wirtschafter in action earlier this season. (Jialin Sung | Student Life)

Millikin University proved too difficult for the Washington University men’s soccer team on Saturday, as the Bears fell 2-1 in a hard-fought away contest. The loss marked the team’s second out of five games so far this season, highlighting the challenges it has faced to start the year.

The first half was tightly contested, with both teams notching five shots each. The Bears took their first one in the 16th minute when a solid attacking play opened up a chance for senior Owen Culver. He managed to curl a powerful shot around the Millikin goalkeeper, but it stretched wide. In the 23rd minute, the Bears had another chance. Junior Joseph Hipskind’s pass deflected off a Millikin defender and rolled to the top of the 18-yard box. Senior John Daniels was perfectly positioned to deliver a powerful strike past the goalkeeper, notching his third goal of the season.

However, it didn’t take long for Millikin to net their first goal. 4 minutes later, they tied the match on a well-placed through ball. The two sides traded shots back and forth for the next 20 minutes, before the Bears committed a foul in their 18-yard box, awarding Millikin a penalty. Millikin converted the penalty to take a 2-1 lead heading into the second half. 

The Bears tallied 8 shots in the second half in a display of consistent offensive pressure, but ultimately failed to equalize. The loss dropped the Bears to a 2-2-1 record.

Coach Joe Clarke recognized that the team has room to develop. “We need to continue to improve on our final pass and our runs in the attacking penalty area.” Clarke also had some positive words for goalscorer John Daniel’s performance. “He is much healthier and playing closer to the amazing player he is.” Daniels, coming off a hamstring injury that limited him in 2022, was a key part of the team’s 2021 season. 

The Bears look to earn their first home win this year on Wednesday, Sept. 20th, when they will take on No. 25 North Park University. Kick-off is slated for 2 p.m. CST.