Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia College men's soccer team was back in action this afternoon when they played host to the ninth seeded Cardinal Stritch (Wis.) University Wolves in the NAIA National Championship Opening Round. The Cougars were defeated by the Wolves by a final score of 2-0 to fall to 13-6-1 on the season.

It did not take long for the wolves to strike first in this one as they were able to find the back of the net in the first five minutes of the game to take a 1-0 lead. The Cougars picked it up as the half progressed and controlled the possession over the next few minutes. They created several scoring chances but were unable to put a shot on target in the first 30 minutes of the game. They were able to test the Wolves keeper late in the half on a long shot from Zion Hartzler but ultimately the score remained 1-0 heading into the halftime break. The Wolves outshot the Cougars 6-4 in the half with Columbia putting one shot on target.

The Cougars came out in the second half and controlled the possession early in the period. They had a corner kick opportunity in the first five minutes of the half but were unable to capitalize. The Wolves were able to add to their lead with 31 minutes left to play in the game when they were able to beat Ryan Harrisskitt to the left side of the goal to take a 2-0 lead in the match. Columbia College turned up the pressure following the goal but could not take advantage of their chances and the Wolves closed out the game to advance to the final site of the NAIA National Championships in Irvine, California.

Ryan Harrisskitt (9-2-1) was in goal tonight for the Cougars as the junior made one save in the match.

This marks the end of the 2018 Columbia College men's soccer season. The AMC Regular Season Champions ended their year with a 13-6-1 record on the season and 11-0 mark in conference play. They will resume play next fall.