DUBUQUE, Iowa (Duhawks.com) – The Loras Men's Soccer team welcomed their crosstown rivals to the Rock Bowl on Wednesday night and handed the Spartans a 1-nil setback. An Own Goal allowed by Dubuque's goalkeeper in the 10' proved to be the difference, despite Loras peppering 22 shots on the night.
 
Less than 10 minutes in, senior Dillon Olson headed a 50/50 from near the top of the 18 back on frame, forcing Riley Jensen to punch the shot up and over the crossbar. On the ensuing corner kick, senior Tom Fluegel sent a low line drive straight into the hands of Jensen, but the Spartan goalkeeper couldn't keep a handle on the set piece, dropping it into his own net.
 
With the advantage on the scoreboard, the Duhawks were in a position to dictate the pace of the game in search of their second goal. Loras created numerous scoring chances in the first half, only to have them blocked by Dubuque's back line or saved by Jensen, who finished the first half with five saves.
 
Less than 10 minutes into the second half, play was halted by the center official who had Leo Lenth sent off with a straight red card. It was the second time this season that Lenth had been shown a red card, resulting in his team playing down a man for the remainder of the match. The loss appeared to benefit the Spartans, who saw a surge in their offense following the departure of Lenth.
 
In the 60', Gonzalo Hernandez gave Dubuque their best chance of the night, ripping a right-footed shot from the top of the 18. Hernandez hit the post with such force that it shook the entire frame. Luckily for the Duhawks, the rebound bounced harmlessly away.
 
With time ticking away, Loras kept their defense strong and kept the Spartans honest with runs and possession deep into the attacking third. Once again, the Duhawks outshot their opponents by a massive amount (22-4), yet were unable to score. In Loras' favor, the own goal proved to be the difference maker.
 
The victory moves Loras to 9-1-1 overall and a 2-0-0 record in the Iowa Conference. The Duhawks host Buena Vista on Saturday for their third consecutive Iowa Conference contest. On Wednesday, the Beavers fell to Simpson College 8-1 in Storm Lake, Iowa.
 
Kickoff is scheduled for 4:30 p.m.