VIRGINIA BEACH, VA. — After nearly a week off, the Catholic men's soccer team started off a four-game road trip at Virginia Wesleyan in the first of two games for the Cardinals on the weekend. The Marlins found the back of the net twice early in the match and the Cardinals were unable to rally back, falling 2-0 to drop to 2-3 on the season.

12 minutes into the opening half, Virginia Wesleyan capitalized on a chance created by JaMarhe Wills, who found Zach Bittler and Bittler tucked the opportunity away to give the Marlins the early 1-0 advantage. 

Just over four minutes later, the Marlins received a chance to double the lead after a Catholic penalty was committed inside of the 18-yard box for a penalty, which was the first penalty conceded by the Cardinals on the season. Alex Moody stepped up to the spot and converted on the penalty to double the Virginia Wesleyan lead in the blink of an eye.

Catholic had some chances to get themselves back into the game, including out shooting the Marlins 11-2 in the second half, but were unable to make the most of its chances and walked away with a 2-0 defeat.

The Cardinals outshot the Marlins 15-11, but the shots on goal were all even at four. This game marks the first time this season that the Cardinals were held goalless. 

For Bittler, it was his team-leading third goal of the season, and Moody found the back of the net for the second time. The Marlins now sit at 5-1 on the season. 

It is a quick turnaround for the Cardinals as they remain in Virginia to take on Christopher Newport on Sunday, September 15. Kick-off for the match is set for 2 pm.