The University of Mary Washington men's soccer team couldn't overcome a slow start in a 2-0 loss to Messiah (RV) on Saturday afternoon, 2-0, in Fredericksburg, Va.
The Falcons put up their first goal in the 3' before adding another in the 15' -- controlling possession in the first half with a shot lead of seven to four. The Eagles missed high-and-wide on their four attempts as they couldn't record a shot on goal.
But UMW made second half adjustments that kept the Eagles in the game as they dominated possession in the second half -- out-shooting Messiah, 10-2, while putting four shots on goal.
Caleb Perry had the first real chance for UMW in the 59' but his left-footed kick was saved by the Messiah keeper.
Jack Sturman had a chance in the 75' but his chance was too saved by the Messiah keeper.
Rutley Heinemann had the best chance for UMW as the sophomore forward drew the Falcon keeper out of the box in the 76', but heads-up defense from a Messiah defender kept the ball out of the back of the net as the Falcons headed it away to preserve the shutout.
For the day, the Eagles led the way with 14 shots, while Messiah had seven. The Eagles and Falcones both had four shots on goal, while the Falcons recorded all of the corner kicks -- five of them all coming in the first half.
The Eagles are back in action on Wednesday at Shenandoah in Winchester, Va. First touch is set for 7 p.m.
