WASHINGTON, Pa.—The Baron offense continued to improve in the Franciscan University men's soccer game against Washington & Jefferson College Thursday evening despite the final loss: 2-1.

With the score tied 0-0 at halftime, it looked like the Barons might have an opportunity at their first win of the season, but a W&J ball over the back of the Franciscan defensive line put goalkeeper Chris McNamara under direct pressure, and despite an initial save, a collision with another player caused him to lose the ball, making the score 1-0.

Almost twenty minutes later, the Presidents scored on a penalty kick putting FUS down by two. A successful shot by Jace Vansteenburg assisted by Blake Bonilla in the 88th minute, brought Franciscan back into the game but the Baron's weren't able to even the score in the final two minutes.

Head coach Ward Rogers attributed the much improved Baron performance to experience gained in the last few games and practices.

"We played with maturity and made good decisions with the ball," he said, adding that this resulted in increased passing accuracy and fewer turnovers. "This game was a marked improvement over Tuesday's game against Pitt-Greensburg."

Individually, Rogers said defender Evan Olsen was a strong force in keeping the W&J offense at bay. Forward Blake Bonilla was also moved to a midfield position, where Rogers said he added considerable control on both offensive and defensive.

Other standouts for Franciscan were scorer Jace Vansteenburg, forward Brian Bobek, who had two shots on goal, and goalkeeper Chris McNamara, who had twelve saves.

"Brian really got involved offensively this game," Rogers said. "He created several opportunities for us to score. Chris McNamara also made two very good saves in the first half, keeping us tied at 0-0."

Overall, Rogers said that the men maintained good possession and pace of play. As the team continues to train, they will focus on improving speed and passing accuracy, hoping to complete their long climb to victory with the first win of the season.

Now 0-2 in the Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference and 0-9 overall, the Barons will take on Medaille College at home, this Saturday, September 29th at 3pm.