ARDEN HILLS, Minn. — It was a high scoring affair for the Saint Mary's men's soccer teams conference opener Wednesday afternoon. Bethel University edged Saint Mary's 4-3 in a tense matchup at Ona Orth Athletic Complex. 

Despite the Cardinals taking an early lead, Bethel responded with a four-goal surge to secure the victory. Bethel's comeback was highlighted by a hat trick from their leading scorer, who netted the game-winning goal late in the second half.

The game began with Saint Mary's goalkeeper Ryan Horlock under pressure, making multiple saves within the opening 10 minutes to keep Bethel scoreless. 

The pivotal moment came in the 32nd minute when Gabe Le scored, assisted by Than Soe, with a light touch from straight on goal giving the Cardinals a 1-0 lead. Although Bethel continued to attack, Horlock's determined play helped Saint Mary's hold onto their lead at halftime.

The second half started with the Cardinals extending their lead to 2-0 in the 52nd minute when Leonardo Hernandez scored, assisted by Thomas Laaksonen with the beautiful heel flick. However, the Royals quickly answered back with a penalty goal in the 55th minute.

It was Laaksonen leveling the score again with a header at 3-3 in the 70th minute, assisted by Jaydon Singel. Despite a strong effort and multiple attempts on goal, the Cardinals could not overcome the Royals eventual lead, falling 4-3 by the end of the half.

What stood out most in today's match was that all three goal scorers for the Cardinals came off the bench, bringing fresh energy and each scoring their first career goals.

The Cardinals face a major test in their next game, hosting No. 5-ranked Augsburg at home on Saturday, September 20th at 1:00 p.m.