MCKENZIE, Tenn. – Lindsey Wilson men's soccer suffered a 2-0 defeat against Bethel (Tenn.) on Wednesday night in their Mid-South Conference opener at Walter Butler Stadium. The Blue Raiders (3-6-2, 0-1-0 MSC) played most of the match with 10 men after an early red card, facing significant challenges against the Wildcats (7-1-3, 1-0-0 MSC).

Starting goalkeeper Francois Djiba was sent off in the 15th minute after handling the ball outside the penalty area. Hugo Georges came in as a substitute goalkeeper, but after just three minutes on the pitch, he had to be subbed off due to an injury. With no more available goalkeepers, team captain and outfield player Michael Rempel took over in goal.

Bethel capitalized on the situation in the 19th minute when Hubert Oduya Kompany converted a penalty kick, giving the Wildcats a 1-0 lead. Despite being a man down and facing an unusual goalkeeping situation, Lindsey Wilson held off further scoring attempts in open play for the remainder of the first half.

In the 49th minute, Bethel extended their lead with a second penalty kick, this time from Alvin Oguta. Though the Blue Raiders managed five shots, with two on target, they were unable to break through Bethel's defense, as goalkeeper Diego Camargo made two crucial saves.

It was impressive that Rempel, playing as an emergency goalkeeper, did not concede any goals from open play throughout the match.

Lindsey Wilson will look to bounce back when they return home at 7:00 p.m. CT. on Saturday, Sept. 28, to face Alabama-Huntsville.