ST. DAVIDS, Pa. – Eastern Men's Soccer brought the energy to Olson Field on Friday night, grabbing an early lead in front of the home crowd. But despite a dazzling first-half goal and a strong showing from goalkeeper Ty Bleiler, the Eagles fell just short, dropping a 2-1 decision to visiting Haverford.

The Eagles broke the deadlock in the 28th minute with a highlight-reel play. Senior forward Haroon Husseini delivered a slick back-heel pass into space, setting up junior midfielder João Tarabal, who blasted a rocket into the top-left corner for his first goal of the season. Husseini, who made plays all over the pitch throughout the match, picked up his second career assist on the play.

Both teams traded possession in a tightly contested first 45 minutes, with each side managing just a few chances. Bleiler and Haverford keeper Grayson Benson each made two saves to keep things tight going into halftime.

Momentum shifted quickly after the break. Just nine minutes into the second half, Haverford capitalized on a penalty kick after a foul in the box. Juan Rivera stepped up and buried the equalizer, swinging the match in the Fords' favor. From there, the visitors took control.

Haverford dominated the second half, outshooting Eastern 14-3 and keeping the Eagles pinned deep in their own half. The pressure paid off in the 72nd minute when Max McKinney weaved through the defense and slotted home the eventual game-winner.

Despite the final score, Bleiler turned in an impressive performance with nine saves, many under heavy fire. Tarabal and Husseini each recorded two shots for the Eagles, while Thomas Vanni paced Haverford with four.

Eastern (0-2) now looks to bounce back on the road as they travel to Rutgers-Newark for a midweek clash under the lights on Wednesday at 7:00 PM.