*Story by Alex Trevino

WILMINGTON, Ohio - The Wilmington College men's soccer conceded two goals in the second half and fell to DePauw University 3-1 in the season opener at Williams Stadium on Thursday evening. 

The Fightin' Quakers offense showed a high level of energy and skill in the first half of the game. Andre Hagborg and Brady Vilvens each put pressure on the DePauw goal in the opening minutes. DePauw dispossessed Wilmington in the midfield, and quickly brought pressure into the box. Ben Weidner sent a ball to the top of the box to a cutting Jack Kirby who neatly put the ball into the net giving DePauw a 1-0 lead. 

The Wilmington offense was unable to connect on several tantalizing crosses over the next several minutes that ultimately passed harmlessly through the box. TWC did earn a free kick, however, and senior Yusef Muqtadir sent it skidding through the box and in to the back corner of the net tying the game 1-1.

Coming out of the half, the Tigers increased their physicality and were able to battle their way to two additional goals in the second half. Wilmington had several chances in the second half, but was unable to capitalize.  

"We started the game very positively and had a lot of energy," Head Coach Cory Bucur said. "We bounced back nicely after conceding the first goal, but lost the physical battle in the second half."

Yusef Muqtadir scored his first goal of the season for the Quakers. Goalkeeper Gabriel Swaisgood conceded three goals in his debut and had five saves. Jack Kirby, Chase Brieger and Jacob Fowler each scored for DePauw. Goalkeeper Alex Lundin had four saves and one goal allowed.

Wilmington will host the Colonels of Centre College at on Saturday. Kickoff is scheduled for 4 p.m.