MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. - The University of Minnesota Morris Men's Soccer team battled the North Central Rams, falling 2-1 in an intense matchup.

North Central opened up the scoring attempts early in the game, managing to get off two shots on goal that were scooped up by Nick Isensee. Kenyon Ponce took the first shot for Minneaota Morris, followed by Whitaker Root who launched a ball at the Ram's net that was saved by the keeper. The Cougars continued to charge the net, but were unable to find the back of the net to score. North Central opened the scoring for the game in the 34th minute, resulting in the half with Minnesota Morris down 0-1. 

The Cougars were quick to even up the score in the second half. Jacob Lee scored his first goal of the season off an assist from Root to tie the game up at 1-1 in the 46th minute. The Rams responded with their second goal of their own, giving them back the one point advantage at 2-1. Minnesota Morris continued to fight, taking shots on goal that were saved by the North Central keeper. Despite the intense effort from the Cougars, the Rams still led 2-1 at full time, resulting in a Minnesota Morris loss. 

Aaron Mackall took a total of seven shots for the Cougars, placing three on goal. Tommy Ellis, Kenyon Ponce, and Root each took three shots on the day for Minnesota Morris, with Ellis placing two on net. Brett Bartkowicz took two shots, placing one on net in his time on the pitch.

The Cougars will take the pitch again Oct. 5 against the University of Northwestern. The conference match up is scheduled for a 7:00 pm kick off in St. Paul, Minn.