UNIVERSITY CENTER, Mich. — Two second-half penalty kicks by Saginaw Valley proved the difference as Davenport fell 2-0 on Wednesday at Robert Braddock Field. Despite a standout 13-save performance from goalkeeper Beau Hudd, the Panthers couldn't find the breakthrough, though they battled hard and created several strong scoring opportunities early in the match.
The first half was a defensive showdown. Davenport held strong against waves of Cardinal attacks, with Hudd making six crucial saves, including key stops in the 5th and 25th minutes. The Panthers also pushed forward when they could, generating a few dangerous corners and keeping Saginaw Valley on their toes.
The momentum shifted in the second half when Saginaw Valley converted two penalty kicks — both by Eoin Farrell in the 61st and 73rd minutes. Even then, Davenport stayed aggressive, with Hudd continuing to make critical stops and the offense testing the Cardinal defense. Ethan Engle, Drew Matyunas, and Maxamillian Postlewait all recorded shots on goal, keeping the pressure up until the final whistle.
Farrell's two goals gave Saginaw Valley the win, while their keeper, Nick Kay, made two saves to secure the shutout. Despite the result, Davenport showed resilience and plenty of fight throughout the 90 minutes.
The Panthers now turn their focus to Sunday, Nov. 2, when they return home to Caledonia to face St. Cloud State at 11 a.m. Davenport will look to harness that same energy and close the regular season on a high note in front of their home crowd.