MEQUON, Wis. -- The Ripon College men's soccer team suffered a 3-0 setback Wednesday afternoon, falling to Concordia University Wisconsin at Fitting Field.
The Red Hawks created opportunities throughout the opening half, recording two shots and three corner kicks. Junior Seth Schroeder (Iron Ridge, Wis., Winnebago Lutheran Academy) led Ripon's attack early, putting both of his first-half shots toward goal, including a shot on target that was saved in the 24th minute.
Concordia Wisconsin broke through in the 25th minute finding the back of the net, giving the hosts a 1-0 advantage heading into halftime. Freshman Sebastian Covarrubias (Madison, Wis., Madison West HS) kept Ripon within striking distance, making three saves during the opening 45 minutes.
The Falcons added to their lead early in the second half, scoring in the 48th minute to make it 2-0. Just over three minutes later, Concordia Wisconsin found the net again, extending its advantage to 3-0.
Ripon continued to battle offensively despite the deficit. Sophomore Carmine Di Miele (Elmhurst, Ill., York Community HS) put a shot on target in the 57th minute, while junior Ryan Paltzer (Naperville, Ill., Naperville North HS) forced another save in the 84th minute. Junior Ian Martinez (Chicago, Ill., Notre Dame College Prep), freshman Sebastian Lopez (Palatine, Ill., Palatine HS),and senior Thomas Geocaris (Green Bay, Wis., Notre Dame Academy) also recorded second-half attempts as the Red Hawks continued to pressure the Falcons' defense.
Covarrubias finished the evening with seven saves, including four in the second half. Ripon finished with seven shots and six corner kicks, while Concordia Wisconsin recorded 13 shots and four corners.
Ripon falls to 1-1-1 on the season and will return home Saturday, Sept. 12, hosting Benedictine University at 6 p.m. The contest will serve as Senior Day, with the Red Hawks honoring their senior class before kickoff.
