MISHAWAKA, Ind. - Grace College's 21st ranked men's soccer team battled hard, but fell a goal short against No. 5 Bethel on Saturday evening.

The Lancers (9-3-2, 3-2 Crossroads League) enjoyed advantages across the box score in Saturday's contest and despite a strong second half push were unable to overcome a two-goal deficit, losing 2-1.

The Pilots (10-1-2, 4-0-1 CL) had a corner kick in the fifth minute of the top-25 showdown but it was all Grace early.

The Lancers had a trio of chances including a shot from Juan Garcia that forced a timely save from Bethel's netminder.

The Pilots did draw first blood on their first shot of the game, scoring off of a cross from a corner kick to edge ahead of Grace 1-0 at the midpoint of the half.

The game devolved into a midfield battle as neither team was able to generate any credible scoring opportunities.

Late in the half Vasco Tavares had a shot that trailed wide of the net and then just moments later Bethel doubled their advantage, scoring with just 2:48 left in the half.

Pedro Galante was called on in the waning seconds to make a save that kept the Lancers within striking distance as they entered the intermission trailing 2-0.

As the second half got underway it was clear Grace was desperate for a goal to draw within one of the Pilots. Mateus Pereira had a headed attempt sail just high of goal and the Lancers had two more attempts in close order that each missed their mark.

10 minutes into the half a scramble in the goalmouth saw Pereira have his chance denied by a Pilot defender and Garcia followed it up with a chance the Bethel's goalie saved as Grace's onslaught on goal continued.

Diego Yanes and Pereira both had tries on goal again before the Lancers broke through thanks to a goal from Sebastian Lozano. Lozano scored off of an assist from Tavares and brought Grace to within a goal with 28 minutes left.

After giving up the goal Bethel finally responded with some second half offense but it was Grace who continued to push the pace of play.

Lozano looked for the equalizer and his second marker of the match but his attempt was warded off as Bethel desperately clung to the narrow lead.

The Lancers had one last opportunity on a late corner kick. Grace was able to produce a shot, again thanks to Lozano, but it was not enough to draw the game even as Grace ultimately fell 2-1.

The Lancers enjoyed a convincing 12-5 advantage in shots and had a 5-3 edge in corner kicks. The Pilots were whistled for two more fouls.

The Lancers will be back in action on Wednesday as they travel north to take on Spring Arbor.