The BJU Bruins intercollegiate soccer team went into Wednesday afternoon’s game against the Montreat University Cavaliers with rolling momentum, but that momentum fell short, as they lost 0-1.

The Bruins have shown tremendous improvement in maintaining possession and finishing chances in the past three games, earning them a + 9 goal differential over their opponents.

While the team exhibited the same energy that has given them success lately, it backfired and caused a sloppy start against the Cavaliers.

“Coach wanted us to come out with strong pressure right from the start, as we have the past couple of games,” sophomore Travis Woodham said. “I just think it got a little away from us. The energy was there, but the control was lacking at times.”

Overcommitments exposed holes in the midfield, and the Cavaliers took advantage. Junior goalkeeper Joseph Wooster, aided by solid defensive support, made some timely stops, but eventually the Cavaliers took a 1-0 lead. The Bruins had a few looks, including a break-away, but they failed to finish.

The second half was stronger for the Bruins. “We came out more organized and more in control of the pace,” Woodham said. The Cavaliers converted to a strong defensive mindset, however, and held back to play more passive soccer for the remainder of the game. This strategy proved successful, as the Bruins were unable to capitalize on any scoring chances and fell to the Cavaliers, 0-1.

The Bruins, now 3-3 on the season, will have five days to recover from the defeat. The Bruins travel to Columbia International University Tuesday to lock horns with the 5-1 Rams.