THE RUNDOWN
The DBU Men's Soccer team dropped a 3-0 decision to Western Washington at Harrington Field in Bellingham, Washington, on Friday night. A hat trick from senior defender Joar Tidblom proved to be the difference, powering Western Washington's attack and handing the Patriots their second straight defeat to close out a challenging four-match road swing.

The Vikings wasted little time grabbing the momentum, striking in the 8th minute when Reiley Buri-Brown delivered a perfectly placed free kick from 35 yards out that was headed home past Patriot goalkeeper Jackson Bankers. Tidblom doubled the advantage in the 34th minute, giving Western Washington a two-goal cushion at the half.

In the closing stretch, DBU turned to Patrick Banich in goal for the final 18 minutes. The Vikings, however, would tack on one last tally as Tidblom completed his hat trick with a penalty kick in the 84th minute to seal the match.

THREE THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

• The Patriots dropped consecutive matches for the first time this season.
• In a physical match, DBU and Western Washington each committed 15 fouls.
• DBU was shut out for just the second time this year.

INSIDE THE NUMBERS
3 - The Patriots conceded three goals for the first time since October 2, 2024, against UT Tyler.
13 - Western Washington outshot DBU, 13-10.
9 - The Vikings held a decisive edge in corner kicks, 9-2.
 
UP NEXT
The Patriots return home to open Lone Star Conference play on Wednesday night against UT Tyler. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. at Patriot Soccer Field.

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