SAINT PAUL, Minn. – The St. Scholastica men's soccer team picked up its first win of the season in a Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference matchup over Bethel University, grinding out a hard-fought 2-1 victory at Ona Orth Athletic Complex.

The Saints got goals from freshman midfielder Louis Maerker (Essen, Germany/), who opened the scoring in the 17th minute, and sophomore midfielder Truls Wichstrom-Johansen (Sarpsborg, Norway), whose strike in the 42nd minute proved to be the game-winner. Both goals came during a strong first half that saw CSS capitalize on key attacking moments.

Senior goalkeeper Ben Hallberg (Princeton, Minn./Princeton HS) was once again steady in net, finishing with five saves to help preserve the lead. He made several key stops, including three in the first half, as Bethel pushed to equalize.

St. Scholastica also saw solid performances from sophomore forward Gabriel Marchesoni (Surrey, Canada/) and senior midfielder Fabian Andrade (Quito, Ecuador/Colegio Intisana), each creating opportunities and contributing to sustained pressure in the final third.

The second half featured a physical tone, with both teams battling hard in midfield. A total of 20 fouls were called, along with five yellow cards and two red cards. St. Scholastica's freshman defender Sami Kaestle (Buchrain, Switzerland/) and Bethel's Nathan Hunt were both shown red, leading to a 10-on-10 finish.

Even with the intensity rising, the Saints' defense remained composed in the closing minutes. Senior defender Aiden Olson (Duluth, Minn./Duluth East HS) and junior midfielder Parker Chastey (Duluth, MN/Denfeld HS) played key roles in limiting Bethel's late chances and securing the win.

With the win, the Saints improve to 1-7-3 overall and 1-3-0 in MIAC play. They'll return home to Duluth on Saturday, Oct. 4, to host a league contest against Hamline University at 1 p.m. on Harkins Field.