CHICKASHA - Texas Wesleyan University (6-5-0, 0-2-0 SAC) showcased their offensive prowess and resilience in a hard-fought 2-1 loss to the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (5-2-3, 1-1-0 SAC) on Tuesday, highlighting their potential for the season ahead.

The Rams struck first in the ninth minute when Diogo Stefane netted his fifth goal of the season, giving Texas Wesleyan an early 1-0 lead. The goal energized the home crowd and set the tone for a competitive match. Goalkeeper Axel Tonietto anchored the defense with five crucial saves, including key stops on shots from Thato Lekgetho and Callum Scott, keeping the Rams in contention throughout the game.

Texas Wesleyan's attack remained relentless, with Nathaniel Neang leading the charge. Neang recorded three shots, including a header in the second minute and two additional attempts, while Louis Guffroy, Marco Arduino, and Daniel Jimenez each contributed shots to pressure Science and Arts' goalkeeper Angel Diaz, who made three saves.

Science and Arts responded late in the first half, equalizing in the 41st minute with a goal from Thato Lekgetho, assisted by Richard Ebongue Bollanga. Just before halftime, Matija Malenovic scored the go-ahead goal for the Drovers, assisted by Gustav Rosenqvist, to take a 2-1 lead.

In the second half, Texas Wesleyan continued to push forward. Substitutions like Chandler Brookins and Joel Kisukulu injected fresh energy, with Brookins nearly finding the net with a header in the 30th minute. The Rams' lone corner kick, taken by Fabricio Martinez in the 55th minute, showed their determination to equalize, though Science and Arts' defense held firm.

The Rams return to conference play on Saturday against Central Christian College of Kansas with the match slated to start at 3:30 p.m.