The Baker University men’s soccer team fell to 0-3-1 on the season after the Wildcats lost 2-1 to NCAA Division I University of Missouri-Kansas City Thursday.

Both teams were winless prior to the game, providing intense competition throughout the full 90 minutes.

Baker upheld a disciplined defense throughout the first half and was able to take the lead over the Roos just before halftime as freshman Austin Shiney scored a goal with an assist from freshman Andrew Miller in the 42nd minute.

Senior captain Nick Aguilar believes it was a lack of focus that caused the Wildcats to lose the lead and ultimately lose the game in a 15-minute span during the second half.

The Roos tied the game in the 51st minute after a goal from Broc Cramer with help from teammate Jordan Rideout on the assist.

Just as the Wildcats were mounting an attack in retaliation, they lost possession of the ball resulting in the game-winning goal for the Roos coming from Tom Gaus. Mo Ramahi received the assist for the shot.

Although no penalty cards were given to either team, senior captain Donny George said that there were a few heated moments between the Wildcats and the Roos during the game that upped the already high level of intensity.

“Baker soccer is like a family and we will always come together to protect our teammates,” George said.

Both captains are expecting the team to continue supporting each other as they work toward their first victory of the season. They, along with head coach Nate Houser and assistant coach Davy Phillips, hope to create a team identity that will provide them success as they have seen in the past.

“Overall, we were better tonight,” Aguilar said. “You could call this a step in the right direction, but still far from our expectations.”

The Wildcats will play Park University at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday for their first game of the season at Liston Stadium.