LA GRANDE, Ore. – For the first time, Mountaineer fans got to see a glimpse of the Eastern Oregon University men's soccer team. Although EOU put up a tough fight, the Mountaineers dropped a heartbreaker to Sierra Nevada, 2-1, on Saturday afternoon.

"It was a tough game," said head men's soccer coach Stan Rodrigues. "We did so many things right today, and the stats show it."

Junior midfielder Robert Wilson was credited with the first goal in EOU men's soccer history, as his header in the 81st minute tied the match at one apiece.

Unfortunately for the Mountaineers, the Eagles countered with a goal of their own just over three minutes later, and EOU never could respond.

"Credit to Sierra Nevada for showing great heart and being able to field a full team unlike they were a few days ago," said Rodrigues. "They took their chances and it paid off."

Sierra Nevada claimed a 1-0 lead in the 25th minute after Bryan Rojas sent one into the back of the net.

EOU had several chances to respond, as the Mountaineers outshot the Eagles, 30-7.

In goal, sophomore Luke Ridder, a hometown Mountie from La Grande, recorded two saves for EOU.

The Mountaineers return to action on Tuesday for a showdown with Multnomah in Hermiston, Ore., at Hermiston High School. The two teams are set to square off at 7 p.m.

"We will be better everyday and lessons are learned from every game," said Rodrigues. "I am proud of my team and the support we had there today."