QUINCY, Ill. - The Quincy University men's soccer team lost its season opener to Saginaw Valley State University 3-1 Friday (Sept. 1) night.  The Hawks trailed 1-0 after a goal by Michael Shaikly at the 21 minute mark in the first half.

Nate Griffin (St. Louis, MO / CBC) made a full extension diving save several minutes later to keep the score 1-0 and keep the Hawks within striking distance. 

Saginaw Valley tacked on another goal off a free kick from Matt Wilson.  Wilson found the bottom right corner of the net, sneaking it just inside the post.  The Cardinals took a 2-0 lead into the half.  

The Hawks were limited to just one shot in the first half. 

The game became much more physical in the second half as both teams were given a pair of yellow cards. 

QU cut into the lead on a goal by Aubrey Reis (Quincy, IL/Quincy Notre Dame). Off a corner kick deflection, Reis was able to find the back of the net from point blank range.  The Hawks trailed 3-1 with just under 20 minutes to play.  

The Hawks weren't able to crack a tough Saginaw Valley defense and fell to the Cardinals 3-1.  QU was outshot 14-6 with eight shots on goal by the Cardinals compared to just four for the Hawks.

Quincy will take on Lindenwood Sunday (Sept. 3) at 7:30 at Legends Stadium.