St. Paul, Minn. – The Crown men's soccer team traveled to Bethel University on Saturday for their final non-conference game before the start of UMAC play.  Battling against the bigger, more experience Royals, the Storm gave a great effort, but were defeated by a final score of 3-1. 

The Royals turned in a steady performance, getting two first half goals to lead 2-0 at the break and adding a third in the 81^st minute before Crown was able to get on the board. 
The Storm did put together an encouraging bit of play to notch a late goal, with Truman Shetler touching the ball across the line after a beautiful assist from freshman Cristian Olarte.  The goal is Shetler's seventh through five games this year and marks the sixth consecutive game he has registered a goal, dating back to last season. 

Justin Lao returned from a bit of an injury to make 14 saves in the loss and completes a formidable goalkeeper tandem with fellow freshman Tanner Fisher. 

Crown will play host to Martin Luther College on Saturday in the opening game of the 2014 UMAC season.  The two teams combined to score 12 goals in their two matchups a year ago with each game decided by a single goal.  Kickoff is set for 4:15 p.m., immediately following the women's soccer game at 2 p.m.