MISHAWAKA, Ind. – The Spring Arbor University men's soccer team fell to No. 23 Bethel University 1-0 on Saturday at Morey Field.
The Cougars moved to 11-3-3 overall and 3-3-2 in the Crossroads League, while the Pilots improved to 10-3-3 overall and 6-1-1 in conference play.
Luca Canto scored the match's lone goal at the 61:32 mark off an assist from Felipe Van Dijk.
Spring Arbor held Bethel scoreless through the opening half despite an 8-0 disadvantage in shots.
Tommy Farrell made two first-half saves to keep the match level heading into the break.
The Cougars generated all seven of their shots after halftime.
Caleb Swartzendruber nearly put SAU ahead in the 60th minute, but his attempt was cleared by a Bethel defender less than two minutes before Canto's goal.
Spring Arbor continued to pursue the equalizer late.
Will Kuiphof put a header on target in the 88th minute, forcing a save from Noa Sontag, before
Leo Stravato sent another header over the goal in the 89th minute.
Farrell finished with four saves. Bethel held a 14-7 advantage in shots and a 6-1 edge in corner kicks.
Micah Vasey and Swartzendruber led SAU with two shots apiece.
Spring Arbor closes the regular season at home against Goshen College on Wednesday, Oct. 28. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. at the Cougar Soccer Complex.
