The Elmhurst University men's soccer team battled throughout but fell 3-0 to Illinois Wesleyan University on Saturday afternoon at Neis Field in Bloomington, Ill. The Bluejays stayed competitive through much of the match, keeping the Titans scoreless through the first half behind several key saves from goalkeeper Niyen Ruffin.

Ruffin turned in an outstanding effort in goal, recording nine total saves—six of them in the opening half—as Elmhurst weathered 15 Illinois Wesleyan shots before halftime. The Bluejay defense, led by Logan Kennedy, Fernando Delgado, and Loretto Lopez, cleared multiple dangerous chances and held firm through 45 minutes of play.

Elmhurst generated several offensive looks, registering nine total shots and five on target. Freshman Klaus Gartner paced the Bluejay attack with three shots, including two on goal. Jacob Wipke and Michail Tzankov each added a shot on frame, while Dario Gutierrez and Caden Sultzbaugh also contributed to Elmhurst's attack.

Illinois Wesleyan finally broke through in the 61st minute to take a 1-0 lead, adding goals late in the second half s to seal the result. Despite the deficit, Elmhurst continued to press forward late, with Gartner nearly finding the net in the 83rd minute.

The Bluejays finished with three first-half corner kicks and limited fouls, maintaining their composure against one of the top offensive teams in the CCIW.

Elmhurst moves to 4-10-2 overall and 1-5-0 in conference play and will return home to Langhorst Field next week to continue the CCIW schedule.