PHOENIX -- The University of the Incarnate Word men's soccer team opened conference action, falling 1-0 to Grand Canyon University on Saturday night.
 
HOW IT HAPPENED
 
FIRST HALF:
Carlos Mercado successfully protected the net for UIW in the first half, blocking two shots, including an outstanding penalty kick save in the 44th minute. The first half ended with a 0-0 tie.
 
SECOND HALF:
The Cardinals' defense held strong, halting six of the Lopes' shots to start the half. GCU broke through in the 79th minute to take a 1-0 lead. Despite two shots, including a shot on goal by Kas Van Eekelen, UIW was unable to hit the back of the net, falling, 1-0, to GCU.
 
RECORDS UPDATE
UIW: 3-4, 0-1 WAC
GCU: 4-2-1, 1-0 WAC
 
UP NEXT
The Cardinals return home to Benson Stadium on Friday, hosting Air Force at 7 p.m. (CT).
 
FOLLOW ALONG
For the most up-to-date information on UIW Athletics, visit uiwcardinals.com, follow the Cardinals on Twitter @UIWAthletics and like UIW Athletics on Facebook at UIW Athletics.