PIKEVILLE – A 13th minute goal by sophomore forward Chase Johnson and an 80 percent save percentage from senior goalkeeper Sheldon Thomas were enough to get the University of Pikeville men’s soccer team its longest lead of the season but not quite its first win as the Bears fell 2-1 to visiting St. Catharine College.

The Bears played some of their most creative soccer of the season in the first half, and were rewarded when Johnson latched onto Garrett Kee’s pass just outside the box and blasted home the opening goal. Although the game was still young, the Bears had done a good job controlling the ball and limiting the Patriots to just two shots on goal in the first half.

What looked to be an equalizer for St. Catharine was ruled out by the dreaded offsides flag in the 20th minute. It was not until the 37th minute that Ashley Woods was able to score from a free kick by shooting into the upper-left corner beyond Thomas’ reach.

Woods struck again from the spot in the 47th minute, this time choosing power over placement. Woods’ low, driven effort managed to curve around the wall and into the inside netting.

The Bears’ search for their first win under Coach Shane Pulliam will continue on October 6 at home against Campbellsville University. Kickoff is set for 5 p.m.