Cochran, GA - The Life University men's soccer team wound up short in a back and forth battle against Middle Georgia Wednesday night. Hitting the road for the first of a quick two game stretch of away games, the Running Eagles fell short after a late controversial penalty kick was awarded to the Knights in the 88th minute.

Life U would begin the match in a hole after MGA took the lead in 27th minute. The Running Eagles would continue to pile on the pressure in the first half, but, despite carrying a favorable 8-3 advantage in shots the Knights would hold the lead going into the halftime break.

The second half saw both teams begin to increase the tempo and aggression as seven of the contest's eight cards were issued in the final 45 minute of play.  The Running Eagles eventually tied the match in the 74th minute as substitute Felipe Battagini found the net from an assist from fellow freshman replacement Ervin Sula. The lead was quickly countered as the Knights would go on to regain the lead in the 78th minute on a counter. 

The Running Eagles would then march down the field to draw a foul in the penalty box in the 81st minute, converting the PK to level the teams two apiece. 

Life U continued to increase the pressure in their attacking third throughout the final 10 minutes of play before MGA finally broke through on another counter attack. This time, in the 88th minute, Life U's recovering defense was called for an unfortunate foul inside the box, seting up the Knights to pull away and solidify the game after converting the PK.

Up next, the Running Eagles travel to face non-conference Reinhardt in Waleska, Ga. next Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.

INSIDE THE BOX SCORE:

-- Life U out shot MGA 14-7.

-- There were 28 fouls between the two teams including eight cards. 

-- Thomas Rodella converted Life U's penalty kick to continue his impressive streak of eight consecutive contests with a goal.