LIVONIA, Mich. -- The Madonna University men's soccer team hosted No. 1 Bethel University (Ind.) on Friday evening from the Madonna Athletic Complex. The visiting Pilots came away with the season opening victory over the Crusaders, scoring two first half goals to secure the 2-0 win. 

HOW IT HAPPENED:

The game began with Bethel attacking the offensive end of the field. Tim Noeding put the Pilots on the board early on with a ninth-minute goal to make it 1-0. Later in the half, Andres Maza added insurance for the top-ranked Pilots, making it 2-0 in the 29th minute. The first half was a physical battle, as there were nine yellow cards assessed and 25 fouls between the two teams. 

Madonna tried to get back in the game in the second half, with Ryota Nakajima missing out on a couple chances. The Pilot defense and goalie Mathis Neuhaus stood tall and put the game away for Bethel and co. 

INSIDE THE NUMBERS:
 

• Bethel outshot Madonna 14-10.
• Afonso Henrique made three saves for the Crusaders. 
• Nakajima led Madonna with two shots, both came on goal.

UP NEXT:

Madonna remains home to host Point Park University (Pa.) at 5:00 PM next Thursday.