BILLY WOODS | Reporter

The Lindenwood men’s soccer team defeated the Rockhurst University Hawks, 2-1, on Oct. 18 at Hunter Stadium behind goals from Luke McBeth and Gaspar Alvarez.

The Lions attacked early and often, creating multiple scoring opportunities within the first half. Alvarez struck first for the Lions, scoring his first goal of the season in the 15th minute of the match to put the Lions ahead 1-0. Leon Silva was credited with the assist for the goal.

After continuous pressure from the Lions’ offense, McBeth scored his eighth goal of the season in the 20th minute to push the lead to 2-0 for the Lions.

“Both goals were great,” head coach Carl Hutter said. “Even with a lead, you have to play for 90 minutes and continue to attack, you can’t sit on the lead and take your foot off the gas pedal. The offense has to attack, and the defense has to continue to compete, we told the players to win the second half.”

At the start of the second half, the Hawks responded, scoring a goal in the 48th minute. The goal was the result of a penalty kick from a foul in the goal box.

The rest of the second half saw feisty play from both teams, as multiple yellow and red cards were handed out during the match. Alvarez was issued a red card in the 72nd minute, forcing the Lions to play the rest of the match with one less player.

After more physical play, the Hawks’ coach was issued a red card after a verbal altercation with the referee, forcing his dismissal from the match.

“Alvarez is a smart player,” Hutter said. “In the heat of the moment and with emotions high, it’s hard for everyone to keep their heads on, especially with the frustration, you can’t allow the referee to be the reason why you win or lose.”

The Lions would hold off multiple attacks from the Hawks, with goalkeeper Tim Licht registering five saves on the match and earning his sixth win of the season.

After winning 2-1 against the Hawks, the Lions improved their record to 6-4-2 and 5-3-2 within the Great Lakes Valley Conference.

The Lions’ win streak is also extended to three wins. On Oct. 11, the Lions beat Missouri S&T on Homecoming, 2-0, and on Oct. 13, the Lions traveled to Maryville University to defeat the No. 2-ranked Saints, 4-2.

The Lions will host William Jewell College on Oct. 20 at Hunter Stadium.