DES MOINES, Iowa – William Woods Men's Soccer (4-6-3, 1-5-3 Heart) went toe-to-toe with nationally-ranked Grand View University (9-1-3, 5-1-2 Heart) on Saturday night, holding the Vikings scoreless for over 80 minutes before conceding a late goal in a narrow 1–0 defeat at the Cownie Soccer Complex. 

The Owls absorbed early pressure and found their rhythm midway through the first half, turning defensive stops into attacking opportunities. Senior goalkeeper Matthew Dworak anchored the back line, tallying eight saves -six of them after halftime- to keep the game level heading into the half. 

Moments before the deciding goal, William Woods nearly stole the lead. In the 75th minute, Simone Morona nearly tallied his second goal of the season off a corner kick pass from David Fink. Morona's shot was just off the mark, leaving the game level at zero. 

Grand View eventually notched their winner in the 82nd minute when forward Kevin Ventura found space inside the box and converted the match's lone goal. 

Woods registered 13 total shots in the contest. Miles Andrews and Fabio Juricko added to the attack with strong runs through midfield, while Morona's work rate on both ends anchored the Owls' defensive structure. 

The Owls are back in action next Saturday to take on Park University in Parkville, Mo.