Second Half Struggles Lead to Defeat at Bellevue

BELLEVUE, Neb. – Friday afternoon, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (4-3-2, 0-0 SAC) surrendered three unanswered goals in the second half and suffered a 5-2 loss at Bellevue University (5-4-2, 0-0 NSAA).

The Drovers got off to a great start and captured an early lead on Matija Malenovic's fifth goal of the season in the 17^th minute. The Bruins pulled the score even at 1-1 with a goal in the 33^rd minute of action, and neither team was able to score for the remainder of the half.

Following the break, Bellevue quickly claimed the lead with a goal only three minutes into the half. The Drovers managed to even the score once more as Darko Borisavljevic struck for his third goal of the year, assisted by Malenovic in the 64^th minute. The Bruins then caught fire and responded with three unanswered goals in the final 17 minutes of regulation.

As a team, USAO attempted 12 shots, with four being on goal, while Bellevue attempted 14 shots, with eight being on target. Both teams committed 15 fouls, but USAO lost a pair of players due to red cards. 

WHAT'S NEXT?

The Drovers will return home and open conference play against John Brown University on Tuesday, September 26. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM CT at McLaughlin Field. This big-time game will also be the Annual First Responders Night, hosted by Drover Soccer, and all first responders get into the games for free and they will be recognized for their heroics on the pitch.

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