In a tightly contested match on the road, the N.C. Wesleyan men's soccer team fell 2–1 to Mary Washington on Sunday, August 31, in Fredericksburg, VA. The Battling Bishops struck first when substitute Max Diaz Elizarde found the back of the net in the 35th minute—his first of the season—giving NC Wesleyan an early advantage.

Mary Washington rallied with two second-half goals: Sammy Amorose equalized in the 69th minute courtesy of a brilliant assist from Moises Argueta-Garcia, who then orchestrated the game-winner in the 85th minute, teeing up Elliot Berg for the goal. Goalkeeper Jacob Westermark turned in a valiant effort with seven saves.

Next up, NC Wesleyan embarks on a two-game road swing in Atlanta, beginning with an away match at Emory University on Friday, September 5 at 5:00pm., followed by a Sunday matchup against Oglethorpe University on September 7 at 1:30pm. The Bishops will aim to regroup on the road before returning home for their season—and conference—home opener.

With the offense coming to life and a strong bench contributing, Wesleyan will look to channel that energy and build momentum on the road trip.