DELAWARE, Ohio — The Marietta College men's soccer team closed out the nonconference portion of its schedule with a 3-1 loss at Ohio Wesleyan University Saturday (Sept. 27) afternoon. The Pioneers are 3-6-2 on the season, while Ohio Wesleyan improves to 4-2-3 overall.

"Obviously I'm not thrilled with the result, but we have to recognize the nonconference gauntlet I put this team thru. I have always believed a tough nonconference schedule gets you ready for an incredibly difficult OAC schedule," Marietta head coach Joe Bergin said. "This week alone, has been difficult and while a week's rest will help, it only gets tougher as two of the preseason conference favorites await us in Ohio Northern and Otterbein. Having said all of that the staff still believes in this team."

The Battling Bishops grabbed an early lead in the eleventh minute. Tristan Ruiz de Somocurio scored with assists from Gabe O'Reilli and Callum Wiggins.

Marietta's scoring opportunities were limited in the first half, but the Pioneers managed to capitalize on one of them. Parker Bolin (Albany, Ohio/Alexander), the leading scorer in the Ohio Athletic Conference scored an unassisted goal in the 26th minute to level the match, 1-1. It was Bolin's 11th goal of the season.

The momentum swing was short-lived as OWU regained the lead 30 seconds later. Mitchell Cosler scored the game winner with an assist from O'Reilly. Ruiz de Somocurcio added an insurance goal in the 67th minute with an assist from O'Reilly.

Noah walker posted nine saves in goal for the Pioneers. Sam Whitman started in goal for Ohio Wesleyan and had one save in 78-plus minutes. Zach Hertzberg played the final 11-plus minutes and didn't record a save.

Marietta plays at Ohio Northern on Saturday (Oct. 4) at 5:00 p.m.

Fans can follow all the Pioneer teams all year long at pioneers.marietta.edu. You can also follow the Pioneers on Facebook at facebook.com/MariettaCollege and @MariettaPioneer on X and Instagram.