Alva Review-Courier -

CLAREMORE, Okla. – The Rogers State men's soccer team suffered a 2-0 loss to West Texas A&M on Thursday (Oct. 5) for the Hillcats' first defeat at Soldier Field this season.

In a physical back-and-forth first half, the score was 0-0 after 45 minutes. Although West Texas held a sizable edge in first half shots, the Hillcats dictated play and held the majority of the possession. Most of the Buffs attempts were long chances off target of the goal. The physical contest already saw two yellow cards in the opening stanza.

The Hillcats had an opportunity late in the first half when Riggie Gonzalez had an advantage and space in the Buffs' box, but a sliding challenge somehow won the ball away from Gonzalez and prevented a huge chance for RSU.

The visiting Buffs broke through in the 57th minute of the second half on a flicked header over the top of RSU's goalkeeper Walker Farrar for a 1-0 lead to WT. Callum Challinor earned the goal with the assist on the ball in by Chris Johnson.

West Texas added an insurance goal in the 71st minute of the game. After a corner kick, the ball was bouncing around in the box, and Troy Reeves of WT knocked a shot into the back of the net for a 2-0 margin.

The Buffs posted an 18-7 edge in shots in the game. In a physical game, the two teams combined for 37 fouls and four cautions.

Declan Fitzpatrick registered a team-high two shots, both tallies on goal.

Farrar started in goal for the Cats, making seven saves in 90 minutes.

RSU suffered its first home loss of the season and dropped to 4-1 at Soldier Field. The Cats are 5-5-1 overall and 2-3-1 in the Heartland Conference.

The Hillcats continue their three-game home stretch with Eastern New Mexico on Saturday (Oct. 7) at 1 p.m. at Soldier Field. Follow the contest on the Hillcat Network at http://www.rsuhillcats.com/live.