SALEM, Ore - The Northwest Christian University men's soccer team opened the 2019 season on Saturday with a non-conference match at Willamette University, falling 3-0. 

The Bearcats, who earlier in the week tied the No. 9 ranked team in NCAA Division III, out-shot the Beacons 18-8 and held NCU to just a pair of shots-on-goal. 

Ryan Sato scored what would be the game-winner in the 15th minute and assisted on an insurance goal early in the second half. 

The Beacons were led by Oswaldo Ramirez (pictured) who collected a game-high four shot attempts. Julian Hernandez played all 90 minutes between the pipes, picking up six saves. 

NCU will be back in action on September 20 when they play host to Eastern Oregon University in their conference opener at 3:00 pm.