MISHAWAKA, Ind. -- After a scoreless first half, the Bellevue University men's soccer team scored two quick goals early in the second half to give the Bruins a 2-0 win over previously unbeaten Bethel (Ind.) College in the NAIA Men's Soccer National Championship Opening Round Saturday evening.
With the win, Bellevue (14-3-1) advanced to the NAIA Men's Soccer National Championship final site in Fresno, Calif. on Nov. 30-Dec. 5. Bethel, ranked No. 8 nationally, ended their season at 18-1-1.
The win also marked the Bruins' fourth-straight shutout of the season.
Freshman Graeme Eaglesham scored the game's first goal eight minutes into the second half off a pass from junior Mark Heath-Preston at 53:32..
Heath-Preston scored unassisted just 40 seconds later to give Bellevue a two-goal advantage at 54:12.
Bethel outshot Bellevue 18-14 and held an 8-7 advantage in shots on goal.
Junior Sebastian Narvaez recorded his sixth shutout of the season, improving to 14-3-1 while collecting eight saves in the win.
The Bruins will face top-seeded Lindsey Wilson (Ky.) at 11:30 a.m. (PST) on Monday, Nov. 30, at Ramirez Field in Fresno, Calif. in the tournament's second round.
Game Summary
Bellevue...........0 2 -- 2
Bethel (Ind.).....0 0 -- 0
BU: G. Eaglesham (M. Heath-Preston), 53:32
BU: M. Heath-Preston, 54:12
