DE PERE — The Carthage men's soccer team came up just short in its neutral-site matchup Friday afternoon, dropping a 2-1 decision to Gustavus Adolphus at Schneider Stadium in De Pere, Wisconsin. The Firebirds grabbed an early lead in the first half, but the Gusties answered quickly and secured the game-winner midway through the second half.
- Final Score: Gustavus Adolphus 2 – Carthage 1
- Location: De Pere, Wisconsin – Schneider Stadium
- Records: Gustavus Adolphus 2-0, Carthage 0-2-1
- Carthage struck first in the 21st minute when Alfredo Millan finished off a feed from Emmitt Hansen to put the Firebirds ahead 1-0.
- Gustavus Adolphus answered just four minutes later with the equalizer.
- Goalkeeper Aaron The kept the Firebirds level through a flurry of Gusties chances, making four first-half saves.
- Carthage produced three shots before the break, including a pair from Alex Moncau, but the teams entered halftime tied at one.
- The Firebirds looked to regain momentum early, but Gustavus Adolphus capitalized in the 67th minute when Joe Flory scored the go-ahead goal. Carthage pushed forward in search of an equalizer but was unable to break down the Gusties' defense, recording no shots in the second half.
- The closed with three more saves after the break, finishing with seven stops on the day. Carthage held firm defensively despite pressure, but Gustavus Adolphus' second-half tally proved decisive in a 2-1 final.
"It was another tough challenge, and we had to battle for every ball today. The boys showed determination and worked hard for each other for the entire 90. We scored a great team goal to take the lead, but Gustavus showed they are deserving of their national ranking, and we were unable to hold on for the win. We continue to learn, and this will help us as we prepare for Sunday's match against St. Norbert."
The Firebirds are back in action playing St. Norbert on Sunday, September 7, at 3:30 p.m.
