The Seattle University men’s soccer team put up a valiant fight but lost 2-0 to the University of Washington on Tuesday. Tuesday’s game was the Seattle U Redhawks’ first night game under the new stadium lights and the combination of the University of Washington’s reputation of being a tough opponent as well as the excitement of the new lights drew crowds of students and Seattle U fans to Tuesday night’s game.

Despite the difference in age and experience between the University of Washington’s team and Seattle U, the Redhawks fought hard through the first half, keeping the score at an even 0-0 by halftime. Seattle U managed four shots in the ten minutes of the game but all were saved by University of Washington goalkeeper Ryan Herman. Quick passing between Seattle U forwards Brady Ballew and Miguel Gonzalez led to a near goal early in the game, pumping up Seattle U fans for an exciting matchup.

The ball was near the University of Washington goal for most of the first half but the Seattle U defense, with help of goalkeeper Jake Feener, managed to keep the score at an even 0-0.

Following halftime, the Seattle U defense was put to the test with more close shots from the University of Washington offense. The Redhawks defense eventually grew weary and in the 68th minute, Feener failed to block an incoming shot by University of Washington forward Josh Heard. Ten minutes later, Heard scored again to put the final score at 2-0 and secure a win for the University of Washington.

Although the Redhawks didn’t win, there were notable highlights to the first night game at Championship Field. Neat footwork from Ballew and successful passes between Seattle U forwards demonstrated the team’s cohesion and strong offensive front.

Seattle U coach Pete Fewing was proud of the Redhawks’ performance in the Tuesday night matchup. Fewing acknowledged that the University of Washington is ranked third in the Western Athletic Conference, and presented a great early season challenge for Seattle U’s younger team. “They’re big, they’re physical, they’re smart, they’re talented,” Fewing said of the University of Washington. “They’re very organized; they’re a good team.”

Fewing mentioned that the Redhawks are meeting their goal of improving each week. He said that they made a few mistakes early in the game, but played well overall.

Regardless of the Redhawks’ loss, the student turnout and cheer made for a fun and exciting first game under the lights. The Seattle U Redzone led the school in spirited cheers, and red megaphones were handed out as attendants filed into the stadium to add to the amount of red in the stands. Even after Heard’s second goal, the cheering from Seattle U fans continued on louder than ever.

With a total attendance of 922 fans and over 300 students, Tuesday night marked a great beginning for Seattle U soccer’s first ever season of night games under the stadium lights at Championship Field.