NEWBERRY -  The Newberry men's soccer team fought the good fight against nationally ranked Catawba Wednesday afternoon, only to be bested late in the game, falling 1-0.  Newberry is 2-3 overall and 0-2 in the South Atlantic Conference.

The Indians (of Newberry) neutralized a potent Catawba attack,who came into the match ranking first in the SAC in most offensive categories.  Newberry held Catawba to their lowest goal scoring effort of the season.

But in the end al it took was a game-winner from the foot of Catawba forward Nathan Zuzga (Troy, Mich.) in the 81st minute to clinch the win for #23 Catawba.

Newberry was out-shot 18 to 10 for the game, but equaled Catawba in scoring opportunities in the second half with seven.As the lone goal of the match, Catawba got the ball deep into Newberry territory, finding All-SAC selection Zay-Zay Gilewala (Monrovia, Liberia) on the left wing, for what looked like a 1 vs. 1 with Newberry keeper Bryan Linn (Safety Harbor, Fla.).  Then, out of seemingly nowhere, came Newberry defender and team captain Miles Childers (Casper, Wyo.) who made a sensational tackle to wrestle the ball away from Gilewala.  Unfortunately for Newberry, the referees questioned the legality of the tackle, as a foul was called on Childers, setting up a direct kick 15 yards outside of the box.  Zuzga lined the ball up, and hammered it passed Linn for the goal.

When it's all said and done, Newberry has to pleased with the performance of their defense, a maligned unit that had given up 11 goals in their last two matches.  Linn particularly shined, making five saves and controlling the box during Catawba corners.

Newberry is back in action Saturday at 1 p.m. at the Newberry Soccer Complex, taking on Alderson-Broaddus.