MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – The University of Minnesota Morris men's soccer team was defeated by North Central University, 2-1, in Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) play Tuesday evening in Minneapolis, Minn.
 
The win improves the Rams' record to 4-13-1 overall and 3-7-1 in the conference, while UMM drops to 5-9-3 overall and 3-6-2 in the UMAC.
 
The Rams had the first strong opportunity of the game, but Nick Isensee made an excellent save to keep the match scoreless. North Central took a 1-0 advantage with a goal in the 11th minute. Aaron Mackall nearly leveled the game in the 23rd minute, but the Rams' keeper made a diving save to keep the Cougars off the board. Brett Bartkowicz followed with the next UMM shot, driving the ball into the box, but the keeper covered it. North Central doubled its lead with eight minutes remaining in the first half to take a 2-0 advantage into halftime.
 
The Cougars opened the second half with a strong offensive push, earning several deep free kicks and corner opportunities, but still couldn't find the net. After the early surge, neither team generated much offense. In the final four minutes, the Cougars were awarded a penalty kick following a handball. Jake Anargyros converted from the spot to pull UMM within one. Minnesota Morris pressed hard in the closing minutes but was unable to find the equalizer, falling 2-1.
 
Anargyros scored his ninth goal of the season in the loss. The Cougars recorded six shots on goal, with Mackall and Anargyros each tallying two. Bartkowicz and Burke Sheppard also added one shot on goal apiece. In net, Isensee made seven saves.
 
The Cougars wrap up their regular season on Saturday when they travel to the University of Northwestern for a 3:30 p.m. kickoff.