Box Score ERIE, Pa.--- The Wheeling Jesuit men's soccer team(8-5, 5-1 WVIAC) proved they can compete with the top teams in the region on Tuesday evening. The Cardinals battled toe-to-toe with the No. 10 nationally ranked and No. 2 regionally ranked Golden Knights of Gannon University (10-1, 5-0 PSAC) before falling 1-0 in the 89th minute.
 
Wheeling Jesuit's persistence and aggressive play disrupted Gannon from gaining any type of momentum throughout the match. The Cardinal offense managed to fire 13 shots, five on the frame, compared to Gannon's 15 shots and six on goal. The Golden Knights also held a slight 6-5 advantage in corner kick attempts with the final attempt proving to be costly.
 
With 1:45 remaining in the contest, the Gannon lined up for a set shot by Sean Washek. Washek sent the ball sailing into the box. After the ball bounced around, slipping past two WJU defenders, GU's Robbie Bennett broke the scoring silence and connected with what proved to be the game winner.
 
Victor Picchio led the Cardinals with four shot attempts followed by Philip Mshelbwala and Ignacio Fernandez with two apiece.Luke Roan, George Noubossie, Dominic Welsh, Gonzalo Arroyo and Carlos Avila all had one attempt.
 
WJU goalkeeper Cody Thompson registered five saves.
 
Wheeling Jesuit will be back in action on Saturday, October 13 in Murfreesboro, N.C. against Atlantic Region opponent Chowan University. Kickoff is scheduled for 2 p.m.